Anyway, it happens, blah blah blah, whatever.

But it sucks nonetheless. I’m not used to failing, I usually go after what I want & get it, and the same is true for recipes, learning new things, conquering difficult concepts, etc. Examples: I was a straight A student (except that pesky math) who learned two years worth of Spanish in 1 week when I started a new school at 13, my teacher had me doing book reports in kindergarten to avoid being bored, I applied to ONE college which I was accepted to early & my first job was a paid intern at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. So yeah, failure sucks. But it sucks even more when it doesn’t quite work out the way you’re used to. Especially when you’re psyched on hanging your fangs on pecan pie in all it’s delicious sugary, syrupy glory… & you end up with a load of crap. Which is what happened to me shortly after this lovely picture. My lovely purple pie plate, my lovely & beautiful crust, and those lovely pecans all ready to go.

…

I stress the loveliness of that picture, because that’s the last time it was lovely. It all went to hell in a hand basket after that… and I wasn’t even drunk (yet).

No, I lie, after the pie mixture was put into the crust, I placed the pecans in a beautiful pattern on top. That looked nice. Until it was finished baking. If I was religious at all I’d have sat there & said the rosary. That’s how awful it was. I cannot even bear to explain the mess I created. I couldn’t even take photos to show you, it hurt too much. Seriously, I’m not kidding. I spent all that time on the crust & the filling (and all that goddamn money on pecans which are like $600.00 an ounce!) only to have it end in misery. Add that on top of the cookie recipe I failed at a few nights before & you’ve got a recipe for a Xanax & whiskey-induced coma if ever I saw one. Am I fixating? Yes I am. That’s what I do when I fail at something: I fixate on it until I figure out why the hell I failed in the first place, and then I do it again the right way. But with both recipes (which were both two different desserts from two different books by two different authors, mind you) I cannot figure out where I went wrong. I did everything right. Okay, so maybe I’m not a pecan pie master. Should this really bother me? No. I make a gazillion other things every day, and most of them are insanely delicious & pretty damn aesthetically pleasing. But it does bother me. It really, really, friggin’ bothers me. And the cookies I failed at? I’ve made those before, with absolutely no problem. So what gives?

Alright, with all the problems in the world, I’m probably exaggerating & being slightly over-dramatic about a forkin’ pecan pie & batch of cookies. But this is a baking blog, where I talk about baking, and so that’s what I’m doing. I’m sure you bakers can relate to the frustration. Which is why I’m sharing this. I’ve never been one to shy away from my failures, I’ve always been honest about them. Some of them work out, some don’t. But I wanted to go into detail here because I’ve gotten a lot of e-mails lately regarding baking specifically, and some mentioned how they enjoyed my recipes a lot, even though their attempts “never come out looking as nice.” And to me, that isn’t even the point. The fact that it’s edible, it’s made correctly, it’s not spoiled & looks remotely attractive is the key. It doesn’t have to look 100% perfect, mine doesn’t! The enjoyment of the creation of it, the enjoyment of eating it, that’s what’s important. The decorating can be learned with practice. The fun of it is the creating. And who cares if it’s got frosting sliding off or they’re not perfectly domed!? You’re not on Cupcake Wars. A cupcake or cake or cookie that doesn’t look perfect is NOT a failure. Eat ‘em & your stomach will never know the difference. However, this pecan pie was not edible. My stomach could not have processed it unless I was a goat. I wouldn’t even mind, but this is my second attempt at a pecan pie. The first one was a different recipe, one by Emeril Lagasse, that I made last year or the year before and I wasn’t thrilled with it because it had chocolate in it. It also didn’t look very attractive, and I used a store-bought crust as a shortcut, so I was on the wrong path from the beginning. But at least that one was edible! This one could’ve been used to kill someone- well the crust, anyway. The middle of the pie was drippier than my 6th grade teacher. Ugh. I wouldn’t even have cared if it looked ugly as sin or had horns growing out of it, as long as I could’ve eaten the damn thing. Instead, into the garbage it went.

The point is, though, despite my fixating on this, it happens. It just does. Sometimes the stars aren’t aligned, sometimes the kitchen witch isn’t on your side, sometimes your neighbor puts a Hoodoo curse on you, and sometimes even the weather is against you. Whatever the reason, it just happens, and it happens to the best of us. So don’t let it get you down. Just toss it, smile, & move on to the next recipe. Which is exactly what I’m doing! As soon as I figure out what went wrong.

…

See those books? Yep. I’ll be busy for quite some time. But really what else is there to do in the winter but read, bake & cook? Oh… and eat. So yeah. Two silly little failures aren’t going to ruin my fun in the kitchen anytime soon.

But I will say this: pecan pie can FUCK OFF.……. (Censor that, Lamar Smith)

]]> http://cupcakerehab.com/2012/01/failure-fixation-a-big-f-off-to-pecan-pie/feed/ 2 http://cupcakerehab.com/2011/10/happy-halloween/ http://cupcakerehab.com/2011/10/happy-halloween/#comments Mon, 31 Oct 2011 06:22:21 +0000 Marilla @ Cupcake Rehab http://cupcakerehab.com/?p=16422 My living room lampshade & it’s Halloween resident.

…

In honor of today, I present one of my favorite poems by one of my favorite authors read by one of my favorite actors; a poem I once recited in high school to a packed house, a poem that opened my little 10 year old eyes to the wonderfulness of its author… The Raven, written by Edgar Allan Poe, as done by Christopher Walken. Enjoy, & happy haunting.

…

…

Today, right this minute, I am out of my twenties. Although, if you’re a stickler, then I have until 8:09 p.m. this evening to officially make that statement. Either way, I am no longer closer to 14 than I am to 40 (although admittedly it’s been a few years since I was).

I wish I was the age I am in that picture above, to be honest; but then again, don’t we all? I dig that Cabbage Patch Kids crown & lavender dress. Plus my hair color was fabulous- and natural! But we can’t go back, only forward. And as much of a gorgeous little thing as I was, I’d hate to have to do all that shit over again. SAT’s, math tests, high school, zits, the awkward stages, learning to tie my shoes, my 11th grade thesis paper, learning to write in script, long division, etc. Eh. Maybe I’ll stay 30. Maybe? As if I was given a choice!

So 30 it is. Three decades gone in the blink of an eye. I’m beginning to understand all that “grown-up” claptrap about “too soon old, too late wise” or “enjoy this now, it’ll be over before you know it” or “this is the best time of your life, but you won’t realize it until it’s too late.” Life really does fly by.

It’s a somber birthday for me this year. But any birthday you’re here to have is a good one, right? I’m thankful for that, for Jay, and my family, and my friends, and my pets, and all my blog readers/followers… I love you all. And no matter how sad I am or hard I have it I know there are a lot who have it worse. So no more pity party. Not today, anyway.

Happy birthday to me.

…

CONGRATULATIONS TO  TANIA FROM LOVE BIG, BAKE OFTEN! According to random.org, she won the Wildberry Pie apron from Shabby Apple! Okay, now Tania is a blog-friend of mine, but her number actually came up, no kidding. Just so you know that the winner was picked fair & square and that there’s no shenanigans, here’s the proof (in the form of screenshots).

…

…

I always play fair and square, and the winner is the winner. But really, that’s a perfect example of why you enter more than once, people! Tania won because she used all five of her possible entries! This is the lovely prize she’ll be getting in the mail shortly:

…

Huge thanks to Shabby Apple for hosting this giveaway, big thanks to everyone who entered, and congrats again to Tania. Seriously, my readers are the effin’ BEST blog readers/fans ever. EVER. You make me so happy, I love you all & I wish I could give every one of you a hug, a cupcake & an apron. But for everyone who didn’t win, don’t forget- there’s a coupon code so you can buy your own apron (or dress, or whatever) for 10% off. The code is “cupcakerehab10off” and it expires in a little less than a month (July 24th). Treat yourself!

I’m planning on doing a lot more giveaways in the future, and I usually do one for Cupcake Rehab’s blogiversary in September, so I expect you all to come back & enter again. To all my fellow Americans, have a great holiday weekend! See you guys back here next week.

…

It’s a houndstooth cotton lined with warm black fleece, and it’s reversible! I’m sure she’ll make you a custom order, if you want one. She does amazing work, and her prices are crazy affordable. I plan on having her make me another for sure. Oh, and notice all that snow behind me? Ha. Sucks. It was so bright I was squinting because the sun was reflecting off all of that snow! Thankfully by now most of that is melted, or at least all gray and slushy. Today we’re having such a bad rain/wind storm! How things change.  My hair is also (slightly) longer and darker now, in case you were wondering. Anyway, the second thing I wanted to share is I joined (finally) Frosting for the Cause a month or so ago.  Frosting for the Cause is a project you can read more about at the site, but here’s a snippet:

Beginning January 1, 2011 a total of 365 sugar cookie & cupcake bakers/decorators and bloggers from across Canada and the United States will take turns doing a guest post here at Frosting for the Cause. Once a day, every day for a year you will be treated to a new and talented blogger who will showcase their home-made, hand-decorated cookies or cupcakes together with their recipes. Almost everyone, everywhere, has been touched by cancer in one form or another. The guest bakers will also share in a very personal manner with readers of Frosting for the Cause, about a woman in their life who had to face this terrible disease head-on.

Also, in accordance with their rules, I’m pledging to donate $25.00 to the American Cancer Society, and also in my post I will be telling the story of a survivor; my mom. My posting date is April 3rd, but I’ll keep reminding everyone periodically so you don’t have to remember that. I encourage all you bakers to join- it’s fun, and its for a good cause.

So now that you know what’s going on with me, let’s get back to the baking! Continuing with the black & white theme of my cowl, I thought I’d give these cupcakes another go. Last time I did them, I was relatively new to baking, and while they came out really good… I thought I’d try ‘em again, using dark cocoa powder. This time I used a dual frosting technique as well. I also halved the recipe because from what I remember I got like 30 last time, and I really have no need for 30 black & white cupcakes right now. 17 is one thing. Over 30 is quite another. I only have so many family members to share them with, not to mention only so many glass domes & cake plates to store things in!

…

I might be a bit of a perfectionist, but I’m really not happy with my photos of these. I think it’s time to invest in a really good camera. In real life, they looked better, I promise, haha. Although despite how they look, these cupcakes are some of my absolute favorites. So delicious.

I’d suggest you make both batters at once, one after the other, then spoon them into the liners at the same time, side by side. Otherwise, whichever color you put in first will slide across the bottom.

BLACK & WHITE CUPCAKES

Ingredients:

Vanilla:

• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk

Chocolate:

• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• ½ cup cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350° degrees F. Butter and flour a standard 12-cup muffin pan, or use paper liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt (and chocolate powder when you’re making the chocolate cupcakes); set aside.
2. With an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition; add vanilla, and mix until combined. On low speed, beat in half the flour mixture, followed by milk; end with remaining flour mixture. Mix just until incorporated (do not overmix).
3. Fill muffin cups with 3 tablespoons of each batter, side by side. Bake until a toothpick inserted in center of a cupcake comes out clean, 22 to 24 minutes. Cool cupcakes in pan, 5 minutes; transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

…

Yeah, it’s a huge recipe. 4 eggs & a half pound of butter!  But if you halve it, it’s not bad, plus it’s definitely not as bad as these. For the frosting, I wanted to use a favorite of mine from Our Best Bites and do half vanilla and half chocolate. Be sure to read the post there on it, there are lots of weird things that can happen if you don’t use real name-brand butter or make substitutions. However, I forgot because I was making it while watching Elton John on David Letterman. I swear. So I made a new buttercream that is quite delectable from I am baker. I just used Hershey’s Special Dark unsweetened cocoa (in the cupcakes as well, however it didn’t make the buttercream quite as dark as it did the cupcakes, which was a disappointment). That was probably my fault though. Although I made a similar mistake with my last dark cocoa attempt… hmph.

Chocolate frosting never comes out good in photos, at least not for me. It always looks like shit, literally. Even with some sparkly sugar on top. Oh well.

Oh and speaking of black & white, I also received a surprise present today from Yoyo: this black & white polka dot apron! Pictures to come, of course.

I wish every one of you a safe, happy, and most of all, healthy New Year! See you later

on “this year” for more recipes & goodness… but in the meantime…

champagne cupcakes & Auld Lang Syne!

…

…

Everybody likes to have champagne on New Years Eve. Hell, even when I was a kid I had some champagne on New Years! So here’s a new twist on it; champagne cupcakes! Big thanks to Gimme Some Oven & AllRecipes for the recipe. My advice? Use really sweet champagne. I used Korbel Brut*, and it tasted delicious, but it might be too “dry” for some. And stay away from extra dry champagnes; use maybe an Asti or rose, or  even strawberry champagne (or Cold Duck, if you like… it’d make them a lovely reddish pink color). They’re not a moist, delicate cupcake you can eat 2 of in one sitting. They’re an elegant, dense cupcake that’s the ultimate dessert… perfect served with champagne. And maybe strawberries, since they bring out the flavor of champagne.

I used one of those little mini bottles that come in a 4-pack. The guy at my liquor store was kind enough to break up the pack when I explained I was making cupcakes with it, so that I didn’t have to waste an entire large bottle. He also looked at me very strangely. I’m used to that, though.

I sprinkled some edible pearls on top that reminded me of the bubbles in champagne, as well as gold sugar crystals.

Of course, I had to ring in the new year Cupcake Rehab-style with shiny pink foil liners from Sweet Cuppin Cakes!

…

2010 was a great year for Cupcake Rehab. So many amazing things happened, like the official Tru Blood Beverage website posting about my True Blood Velvet cupcakes back around Halloween, TLC asking me to interview Pamela Ahn, contestant on Buddy Valastro’s new show The Next Great Baker, and getting an e-mail from Martha Stewart’s marketing team. Big things may have started in 2010, but they’re only going to get bigger & better in 2011! I would like to take a second to thank all my readers, followers, “fans” & even you crazy lurkers. You’re (mostly) all amazing and the real reason I’m still doing this. Because yeah, I’d do it for a while (at least) if no one commented… but if no one read it- it’d start to get tedious and boring talking to myself. So thank you, thank you, thank you! I’m so happy to have shared the last 3 years (and almost 4 months) with you. Here’s to 3 more years… hopefully longer, but time will tell! *cheers*

I know New Year’s isn’t just a time for celebrating; but for some a time of reflection and remembering. But I hope that during that reflection, none of you get too melancholy. It’s a time for new beginnings, new resolutions, turning over new leaves. So take a deep breath and put 2010 and all it’s accompanying mistakes  and sadness behind you. Not to forget them, but not to dwell on them, to allow a new hope and optimism to take over. Welcome 2011 and the chance for new opportunities with open arms.

And if all else fails, drink.

CHAMPAGNE CUPCAKES

Ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ⅔ cup butter
• 1 ½ cups white sugar
• ¾ cup champagne
• 6 egg whites

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until very light and fluffy. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together, and then blend into creamed mixture alternately with champagne.
3. In another large clean bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold ⅓ of the whites into batter to lighten it, then fold in remaining egg whites. Fill the cupcake liners about ⅔ full.
4. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.

SWEET CHAMPAGNE BUTTERCREAM FROSTING

Ingredients:

• 3 ¼ cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup butter, at room temperature
• ¼ – ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, depending on taste
• 3 tablespoons champagne, at room temperature

Directions:

1. With an electric mixer, beat together sugar and butter. Mix on low until well blended, and then on medium for another two minutes.
2. Add vanilla and champagne, beating on medium for another minute. Tada!

…

*I wasn’t in any way compensated for using or mentioning Korbel. I WISH!

So, wow, it’s December already! ‘Tis the season to go shopping! If you’re looking for a gift for the baker (or cook) in your life, then here are some ideas to help you out. It’s just a short list this year, because I’ve been busy, and sadly haven’t been able to add all that I wanted to, but enjoy it anyway! Really, it’s just a little wishlist of my own (save for the mixer which I already have) and I just thought there might be others out there like myself who’d want the same things. So here’s my Top 10 Holiday Gifts (for the baker in your life) of 2010!

I’ll have a new recipe for you all next week, but in the meantime… take notes! Psst: these ideas apply ONLY to women (or certain types of men, I suppose) who love and live to cook or bake. I take no responsibility for you buying your wife or girlfriend a stand mixer only to have your clothes thrown out in the street because she wanted a lame Dooney & Bourke or whatever.

…

…

CATEGORY 1:

USEFUL THINGS that are pretty…

Now as far as Christmas/Chanukah/Kwanzaa/Solstice/New Year’s/Birthday/Anniversary/etc gifts go, one of my personal all-time favorites is the Kitchen Aid stand mixer. *cue angel’s singing*

…

The Kitchen Aid Artisan stand mixer is an investment, built to last. If you know someone who’s been wanting one, let me tell you: it’s worth the money. You’ll get your money’s worth AND MORE. I’ve heard of people who have their parents Kitchen Aid’s, and they still work! At $299.99 (and free ground shipping), it’s an amazing holiday gift no one will forget. I showed it in Empire Red because of the holiday, but there are so many other beautiful colors (I’m partial to my pink one, she’s become such a huge part of my life she’s even all over my website!) including silver, cornflower blue, boysenberry, caviar, yellow pepper and a shitload more to match any kitchen or color scheme.

…

Another thing I’m in love with are these amazing Tin Woodsman/Crosby & Taylor pewter measuring cups & spoons (shown: fish handles with palm tree stand). At $179.00 (for the measuring cups, the spoons are $79.99) they’re a thing of beauty, but admittedly slightly pricier than the ones you see at Williams-Sonoma or Crate & Barrel. They’re like works of art, though, and if you know a kitchen artist, it’s a wonderful gift idea. I first saw them on Paula Deen’s show and fell in love instantly. They’re absolutely amazing and they’re sure to get a few gasps (among the right crowd).

…

…

CATEGORY 2:

PRETTY THINGS that are useful…

If it’s one thing I’m obsessed with, it’s aprons. Every brand, shape, size, color and style. So here’s a little rundown of my top Christmas aprons this year, just in case you wanna buy a little something for an equally obsessed Kitchen Witch.

…

The first up is this adorable apron called the “Party in Pink” apron from Carolyn’s Kitchen. 10% of the purchase price of the apron ($42.00) goes to Breast Cancer Research. Same goes for the half-apron ($36.00) and the gloves/garter ($12.00 and $22.00, respectively). Yes, matching gloves AND garter. This one is a HUGE favorite of mine, I love that it’s Christmas-y but pink… and I’m really hoping to find it under the tree this year, especially since a portion goes towards a worthy charity.

…

Next is yet another from Carolyn’s Kitchen. It’s the “Holiday Sparkle” apron. The prices are same as above: full apron: $42.00, half-apron: $36.00 and gloves: $12.00. No garter for this one, sorry folks. This is the cutest Christmas pattern; kitschy and super retro. The style of the trees reminds me of a tablecloth my mother made as a little girl with felt and sequins.

…

Now this apron is from a longtime favorite company of mine, Jessie Steele. The “Mrs. Claus” apron is red with black buttons and white trim to mimic the Claus’ outfits. At $32.95 it’s the most affordable one of the first three, and it’s totally cute. Imagine making your Christmas cookies or making Christmas dinner in that! Adorbs!

…

And then we have this beauty. From Etsy, a retro-inspired Christmas apron with both a peppermint stripe fabric and a vintagey Santa Claus pattern. I love (no pun intended) loverdoversclothing‘s aprons and this is no exception. They’re handmade and absolutely adorable. For $29.99 it’s a beautiful gift for the vintage-loving baker that looks like it really could be vintage.

…

…

CATEGORY 3:

PRETTY THINGS that aren’t useful at all, they’re just pretty…

So I’m a sucker for a cute necklace. And since I love to bake, I’m an even  bigger sucker for a cute necklace that’s also baking-related.

Another item I hope I find under the tree this year: a sterling silver whisk necklace by exodesign on Etsy. At $38.00, it’s a handmade piece of jewelry that can be customized (with or without twisted ring) to suit you. I think it’s just so cute and I love it to pieces. And I just love Etsy, don’t you?

…

Another example of extreme cuteness from Etsy. This tiny little cupcake pendant on a chain is made of silver, and the pendant is just 3/8″ in diameter. How cute! It costs $28.00 and it’s by lulubugjewelry. I think this is absolutely perfect for someone who loves cupcakes (or makes ‘em), but is over the age of 16 and doesn’t want a hot pink cupcake hanging around their neck all the time. Not that there’s anything wrong with that- but there’s a time and a place. This necklace can go anyhere and be worn with anything. Perfect.

…

…

CATEGORY 4:

PRETTY THINGS that are both useful & incredibly convenient…

The thing I like BEST about making cupcakes is the fantastic liners, toppers, sprinkles & decorations that are available. Some of my favorite sites are Sweet Cuppin’ Cakes Bakery & Cupcakery Supplies, Bake It Pretty, sweet estelle’s baking supply, Sutton Gourmet Paper, and Fancy Flours. Below, I’ll give you some examples of little “sets” to buy the baker you know who’s so crazy she has plastic storage cases filled with liners & accessories *ahem* Not that I speak from experience or anything… *ah-hem*

First up is Bake It Pretty‘s “Cupcakes 101” kit. I love this idea. Whether you’re buying it for an experienced baker, or to try and encourage a newbie, it’s perfect. It includes: approx. 125 standard baking cups in assorted polka dot, striped, and solid colors, over 25 traditional toppers in assorted styles (clowns, flowers, ballerinas, etc.), 4 ounces of Rainbow Jimmy Sprinkles in resealable bag… plus, everything is packaged in a paperboard suitcase in the color of your choice (well, as long as it’s available). You also can specify whether it’s for a male or female, what colors you absolutely hate, and whether “clowns scare you.” For only $22.95, it’s a great cupcake-y gift. I have never been disappointed with Bake It Pretty, I highly recommend them.

…

Another adorable “kit” idea is this one from sweet estelle’s baking supply on Etsy. It’s called the “Woodland Cupcake Kit” and it has everything you need for Christmas-y cupcakes. A great hostess gift for someone who loves to bake, or a great idea for kids; get it for them to make cupcakes (or a cake) with you! At $12.00, it’s really affordable and you get a lot: 24 standard green with little dot cupcake liners, 12 small deer picks, 12 pine tree picks, 6 edible sugar snowflake decorations, 6 edible pine cone decorations & 2 ounces of green non-pareils and comes packaged in a pink bakery box with brown baker’s twine.

…

Well I hope you enjoyed those, and found something interesting to buy for the baker or cupcaker you love. Although I’d actually like to add just one more little thing…

My dear friend Yoyo makes the cutest tissue holders, and this one is a Christmas one. So while it isn’t necessarily for a baker, it has peppermints on it and it would be mighty cute to buy and stuff in the pocket of one of those above aprons you just bought. It’s sparkly, it’s Christmas-y, it’s thoughtful, it’s only $3.00, and as if that’s not cheap enough, if you enter the code CUPCAKEREHAB you get 20% off. So click on over to Topstitch and buy one!

…

So go forth and buy!

]]> http://cupcakerehab.com/2010/12/bakers-delight/feed/ 7 http://cupcakerehab.com/2010/11/donation-time-delaneys-dream-2/ http://cupcakerehab.com/2010/11/donation-time-delaneys-dream-2/#comments Mon, 01 Nov 2010 14:21:54 +0000 Marilla @ Cupcake Rehab http://cupcakerehab.com/?p=7405 Like I’ve said for a few months now, on the second of every month this year, I’m going to be asking you, my readers, to do something. It’s nothing that will drastically change your life in any way, or your financial situation, but it will help others. And potentially, in some cases help to save a life, to bring people together, to provide soldiers with things that will comfort them in war zones, provide a safe place for animals until they’re adopted (if ever), help the children and families of police officers killed in the line of duty, to help someone get through a difficult period in their lives when they need it the most. Which is what this month’s charity will do.

Every month in 2010, as you can see here, my GENEROUS & BIG HEARTED friend Yoyo is donating 100% of one days’ profits in her webstore to a different charity. January was the Villalobos Rescue Center, February was the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program, March was Mollie’s Fund, April was Let’s Bring ‘Em Home at LBEH.org, May was Soldier’s Angels, June was Green Beans Coffee, July was Adopt-A-Bull, August was Just A Dog, and September was the NYC PBA Widow’s and Children’s fund (which was an important charity close to my heart) and last month Yoyo donated to the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program again, in honor of my mom. This month it’s Delaney’s Dream.

My friend Becky knows a little girl named Delaney. Delaney is a little girl who has Neuroblastoma. For those of you who don’t know what that is, it’s a rare extracranial childhood cancer. According to Wikipedia:

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial solid cancer in childhood and the most common cancer in infancy, with an annual incidence of about 650 new cases per year in the US.^[1] Close to 50 percent of neuroblastoma cases occur in children younger than two years old.^[2] It is a neuroendocrine tumor, arising from any neural crest element of the sympathetic nervous system or SNS. It most frequently originates in one of the adrenal glands, but can also develop in nerve tissues in the neck, chest, abdomen, or pelvis.

Neuroblastoma is one of the few human malignancies known to demonstrate spontaneous regression from an undifferentiated state to a completely benign cellular appearance.^[3] It is a disease exhibiting extreme heterogeneity, and is stratified into three risk categories: low, intermediate, and high risk. Low-risk disease is most common in infants and good outcomes are common with observation only or surgery, whereas high-risk disease is difficult to treat successfully even with the most intensive multi-modal therapies available.^[4]

Note: Esthesioneuroblastoma, also known as olfactory neuroblastoma, is believed to arise from the olfactory epithelium and its classification remains controversial. However, since it is not a sympathetic nervous system malignancy it is a distinct clinical entity and is not to be confused with neuroblastoma.^[5][6]

About 20-50% of cases do not respond to high-dose chemotherapy and relapse is common. Other treatments are available, but all in all the outcome remains poor. Delaney turns 4 today, and while she’s considered NED (no evidence of disease), like I said relapse is common. She’s in a trial vaccine to prevent that from happening, and hopefully that’ll work, for more information on little Delaney, check out Becky’s post about her and the donation day today. And then please buy something and help her family pay for her medical bills and get her the treatment she needs. She’s a miracle of a little girl, and deserves to have a happy 4th birthday, and many many more.

So again, what am I asking of you?

I’m asking you to buy something from TOPSTITCH on November 1st. That’s TODAY. You have one whole day to make a purchase. It doesn’t have to be a big purchase… even a small $2.00 order can mean a lot to an organization that needs money to help people who need it. So go check out what TOPSTITCH has to offer and then tomorrow, don’t forget to go back and buy something! Yoyo always has a ton of awesome, unique, handmade one of a kind merchandise in her store-  crayon rolls, hobo bags, pouches, mini-pouches, key fobs, wristlets, APRONS, even catnip toys for your kitty! The inventory cycles and not everything I listed might be in stock tomorrow, but it doesn’t matter. Anything you buy is going to be awesome. Everything is very well made and even better, made with love. The bigger pouches are great for carrying your makeup in your bag everyday or for using as a small purse to just run to the store with, and the smaller pouches are the perfect size for personal items & “unmentionables.” Although the small ones can also fit a camera or iPod too. I definitely have been making my contributions each month, and so has Brianne! So then should you. She has plenty of affordable items, and they’re all one-of-a-kind and well made. So please think about contributing to this cause and in return getting an awesome handmade item! What could be better than helping people and getting something unique in return?

Not only that, but you’ll be helping to comfort someone who needs it, maybe give a little girl an extra chance at life, and give her parents some peace of mind. Think of children you know… and if they’re healthy, be thankful. And then lend a hand to a child who isn’t. Pay it forward.

And- get this- anyone who mentions me by name or mentions ‘Cupcake Rehab’ when ordering gets extra goodies!

And don’t just shop at TOPSTITCH today, shop there everyday. Because we should all support our local artisans and craftspeople! Buy handmade!

Every month in 2010, as you can see here, my GENEROUS & BIG HEARTED friend Yoyo is donating 100% of one days’ profits in her webstore to a different charity. January was the Villalobos Rescue Center, February was the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program, March was Mollie’s Fund, April was Let’s Bring ‘Em Home at LBEH.org, May was Soldier’s Angels, June was Green Beans Coffee, July was Adopt-A-Bull, August was Just A Dog, and September was the NYC PBA Widow’s and Children’s fund which was also an important charity close to my heart. But this month Yoyo is once again donating to the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program again, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month which is this month- October.

The Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program is an amazing organization. They run a hotline so that women who are diagnosed with breast cancer (any stage) can call and talk to a survivor, someone who’s been through it. In addition to that, they have social workers that will help uninsured (or insured) women navigate the healthcare system to get the best possible care and the care they need. Also, they have a fantastic program with classes for survivors, whether it’s 6 months or 6 years. Classes like yoga, belly dancing, pottery, painting, Reiki, everything! They promote self-exams, and have social workers in local hospitals so that when women are diagnosed they can talk to someone right away. They’re the ONLY bi-lingual breast cancer hotline in New York.

And it’s all free. They don’t expect anything or ask for anything, they never hound people for donations or make pests out of themselves. They’re an amazing group of people and they deserve to have funding so they can continue their work. As you may know, my mother is a breast cancer survivor (4 years!) and she also is a volunteer on the hotline. So like I said, this is a cause close to my heart.

So again, what am I asking of you?

I’m asking you to buy something from TOPSTITCH on October 2nd. That’s TOMORROW. You have one whole day to prepare, and then once it’s actually October 2nd, you have a whole 24 hours to make a purchase. It doesn’t have to be a big purchase… even a small $2.00 order can mean a lot to an organization that needs money to help people who need it. So go check out what TOPSTITCH has to offer and then tomorrow, don’t forget to go back and buy something! Yoyo always has a ton of awesome, unique, handmade one of a kind merchandise in her store- pouches, mini-pouches, key fobs, wristlets, APRONS, even catnip toys for your kitty! The inventory cycles and not everything I listed might be in stock tomorrow, but it doesn’t matter. Anything you buy is going to be awesome. Everything is very well made and even better, made with love. The bigger pouches are great for carrying your makeup in your bag everyday or for using as a small purse to just run to the store with, and the smaller pouches are the perfect size for personal items & “unmentionables.” Although the small ones can also fit a camera or iPod too. I definitely have been making my contributions each month, and so has Brianne! So then should you. She has plenty of affordable items, and they’re all one-of-a-kind and well made. So please think about contributing to this cause and in return getting an awesome handmade item! What could be better than helping people and getting something unique in return?

Not only that, but you’ll be helping to comfort someone who needs it, and provide a distraction for women going through treatment or who are Stage IV by providing them with fun classes and events. This is the program’s 30th Anniversary, so let’s give them a great present, okay?

And- get this- anyone who mentions me by name or mentions ‘Cupcake Rehab’ when ordering gets extra goodies!

And don’t just shop at TOPSTITCH today, shop there everyday. Because we should all support our local artisans and craftspeople! Buy handmade!

..

Today marks the third year of my officially having this blog! I can’t believe it- time flies. I’m really happy that three years ago I started doing this, because through this I’ve met some wonderful, beautiful people, and found some awesome stores on the web (who’ve sent me some amazing things to try!); i.e. Sweet Cuppin’ Cakes Bakery & Cupcakery Supplies, Sutton Gourmet Paper, sweet estelle’s baking supply, Cupcake Crafts 4 U, and Sourpuss Clothing. Not to mention the amazing stores that I’ve found just by clicking links on other blogs: Two Lumps of Sugar, Fancy Flours, Bake It Pretty, and Pop Deluxe! I love all my readers and fans and Twitter followers, and I hope the next three years are just as fun as the last three were.

It’s funny because when I started this blog, I had no idea what it’d become. I had no idea I’d end up with over 600+ views a day and almost 400 fans on Facebook. To me, someone who started this on a lark, that’s a big deal. I remember when I had my old wordpress.com blog, I remember my first post there (it transferred to the dot com when I imported my entries, you can see it here), and then I remember when Jay surprised me with the dot com- it was so exciting! And here we are now.

Last year I had a big giveaway in honor of my blog baby’s birthday, and this year it’s no different. Well, it is sorta different, because the rules are different this year. But first, lets talk about the prizes, shall we?

…

THE PRIZES!

…

First off, Yoyo from Topstitch.org is donating a cupcake print half-apron as well as a cupcake print tote, headband, pouch and key fob! You can view her webstore here and check out her awesome merchandise (and maybe buy something?). Please note: these items pictured are not the items you will recieve- Yoyo is CUSTOM MAKING the items for the giveaway, these are just examples!

…

And then, Lyns from Sweet Cuppin’ Cakes Bakery & Cupcakery Supplies is donating cupcake liners & some cupcakery supplies to the lucky winner as well. Isn’t that cool? Who doesn’t love cupcakes? And cupcake liners? Lunatics, that’s who. From Sweet Cuppin’ Cakes Bakery & Cupcakery Supplies the winner will get:

100 pack of rainbow cupcake liners (regular size)!

…

…and Sparkling confetti-colored sugar!

….

And wait- I’m not done! The winner will also get a cookbook with 150 home recipes from Brianne at Iron Chef Mommy. Her daughter’s playgroup every year sells the cookbooks to raise money, and this year she’s kindly offered to donate one to the winner of my giveaway!  The cookbooks won’t be available until October 3rd or around there, so Brianne will send it out as soon as it comes in!

…

HOW TO WIN!

…

So the winner will be getting something like 8 prizes, maybe more, of well over $50.00 in value. Probably closer to $100.00! Lucky bastard. So I know, you’re all wondering, “How do I win all this neato swag, daddy-o?”

Well this year the giveaway is way easier than last year. All you have to do this year is:

• Leave a comment telling me what your favorite CUPCAKE recipe is that I have posted on this blog. It could be from way back in 2007, from last week, or it could be the Neapolitan cupcakes I made for Cupcake Rehab’s first birthday, or the cupcakes I list here tomorrow- whatever! Just tell me which one, if you can, please link to it, and tell me why it’s your favorite. It’s that simple.
• If you want to up your chances of winning, you can follow me on Twitter & become a fan on Facebook as well (just make sure you send me a tweet/leave a comment on the Cupcake Rehab Facebook wall telling me you entered and your name!). Each time you do one of those things, you can comment again, so you get counted another time, so you have up to three chances of winning. Again, it would be nice if you linked to the recipe.
• But wait… there’s one more way! If you have a blog, and you blog about the giveaway, or mention it (with a link to this post) in your blog, you’ll be entered a fourth time. Just come on back here and comment again with a link to your blog post! Remember, you don’t have to do all four things, if you don’t have a blog, or a Twitter, or a Facebook page, that’s totally fine. You can still enter by commenting & telling me what your favorite recipe on the blog is & why. But if you do have those things, then by all means, come & get your extra chances of winning!

It will be chosen by a randomizer, so it will be totally and completely objective and unbiased, anyone can enter, anyone can win. Totally easy, right? Yep. But the thing is… you only have two weeks to do it. On September 26th, the giveaway ends. So get to searching the archives, everyone! In between now and the 26th, the blog will continue. I’ll be posting other recipes, etc. On the 26th I’ll close the comments here, pick the winner, and edit this post to announce who won. I’ll then send the winner an e-mail asking for their full name, address, etc.

What are my favorite recipes I’ve made? Oh lord.

Hmm… what’s my favorite cupcake recipe?! (apron from Two Lumps of Sugar)

..

Well, if I’m being honest (and boring), vanilla cupcakes (frosted with almost anything) is always a favorite of mine. I always say my favorite cupcake recipe is the Magnolia Bakery vanilla. And that’s true. But I do have others, and to be frank, any vanilla recipe is good to me. I love a good white cupcake, either Martha’s or not. I also like Billy’s Bakery’s vanilla cupcake recipe & Amy Sedaris’ recipe ain’t bad. However…

I love love LOVE this recipe for mocha chocolate cupcakes made with coffee. My favorite chocolate cupcake recipe is here. My favorite fruity cupcakes are these lemon yogurt ones (which were really lemony & delicious) and these coconut & lime cupcakes. Speaking of coconut- Ina Garten’s coconut cupcakes are beyond amazeballs and  have to be one of my favorites, especially with a coconut buttercream. My favorite alcohol based cupcakes? I’d have to say the chocolate stout cupcakes, with the Bailey’s Irish Cream cupcakes a very close second. As far as the most delectable & decadent? S’mores cupcakes, by far. The marshmallow fluff frosting is teeth-achingly good. The most sophisticated cupcake- tea cakes with Earl Grey icing. The cupcake that most surprised me, flavor-wise, was the recipe I made for Mardi-Gras, based on King’s Cake. The lemony-nutmeg combination was so good.  My favorite cupcakes, decorating-wise are definitely the pointsettia cupcakes I made for Christmas.

I could go on, and on, and on… but I won’t. I’ll stop there and let you all take it from here. So what is YOUR favorite cupcake recipe that I’d made/posted, and why? Tell me * & you might win some awesome prizes.

*Note: picking the same favorite as one that I picked will NOT get you any brownie points. Like I said, the winner will be chosen via a randomizer on the web, so no favorites!

Every month in 2010, as you can see here, my GENEROUS & BIG HEARTED friend Yoyo is donating 100% of one days’ profits in her webstore to a different charity. January was the Villalobos Rescue Center, February was the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program, March was Mollie’s Fund, April was Let’s Bring ‘Em Home at LBEH.org, May was Soldier’s Angels, June was Green Beans Coffee, July was Adopt-A-Bull, and August was Just A Dog. This month, however, is something that’s really close to home for me- the NYC PBA Widow’s and Children’s fund.

The Widow’s and Children’s fund provides assistance and relief to widows and families of Police officers who are killed in the line of duty. As you know, or may not know, Jay is a New York City Police officer. I know that it’s not an easy job, and while day-to-day he might not be called upon to do wildly dangerous things, every car stop has the potential of going wrong, and there is a chance that someday he might have to put on the Haz-Mat suit or use the gun. And I hope every day that that day never comes. But reality is- it’s a dangerous job, especially in a post-9/11 world. And for the officers who have families and children, the PBA has this fund which I think is wonderful. It might give a wife (or husband) some peace of mind at a terrible time in their lives. My great-uncle was Vice President of the PBA back in the day, and another great-uncle of mine was also in the NYPD (he then switched to the Fire Department). I have other cops in my family aside from them, and my father was a HAZ-TAC Lieutenant in the FDNY EMS who worked tirelessly on 9/11 and afterwards at Ground Zero. I take a lot of pride in the professions mentioned, and I wear my little white gold replica of Jay’s shield around my neck proudly. I’m so glad Yoyo chose this as one of her charities, as it means a lot to me. Civil Service isn’t always about eating donuts & drinking coffee.

As Jay put it: “I don’t get paid for what I do every single day, I get paid for what I might have to do.”

So again, what am I asking of you?

I’m asking you to buy something from TOPSTITCH on September 2nd. That’s TOMORROW. You have one whole day to prepare, and then once it’s actually September 2nd, you have a whole 24 hours to make a purchase. It doesn’t have to be a big purchase… even a small $2.00 order can mean a lot to an organization that needs money to help people who need it. So go check out what TOPSTITCH has to offer and then tomorrow, don’t forget to go back and buy something! Yoyo  always has a ton of awesome, unique, handmade one of a kind merchandise in her store- pouches, mini-pouches, key fobs, wristlets, APRONS, even catnip toys for your kitty! The inventory cycles and not everything I listed might be in stock tomorrow, but it doesn’t matter. Anything you buy is going to be awesome. Everything is very well made and even better, made with love. The bigger pouches are great for carrying your makeup in your bag everyday or for using as a small purse to just run to the store with, and the smaller pouches are the perfect size for personal items & “unmentionables.” Although the small ones can also fit a camera or iPod too. I definitely have been making my contributions each month, and so has Brianne! So then should you. She has plenty of affordable items, and they’re all one-of-a-kind and well made. So please think about contributing to this cause and in return getting an awesome handmade item! What could be better than helping people and getting something unique in return?

And- get this- anyone who mentions me by name or mentions ‘Cupcake Rehab’ when ordering gets extra goodies!

And don’t just shop at TOPSTITCH today, shop there everyday. Because we should all support our local artisans and craftspeople! Buy handmade!

Like I’ve said for a few months now, on the second of every month this year, I’m going to be asking you, my dearsweetloyaldarlingbeloved readers, to do something. It’s nothing that will drastically change your life in any way, or your financial situation, but it will help others. And potentially, in some cases help to save a life, to bring people together, to provide soldiers with things that will comfort them in war zones, or provide a safe place for animals until they’re adopted (if ever). Which is what this month’s charity will do.

Every month in 2010, as you can see here, my GENEROUS & BIG HEARTED friend Yoyo is donating 100% of one days’ profits in her webstore to a different charity. January was the Villalobos Rescue Center, February was the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program, March was Mollie’s Fund, April was Let’s Bring ‘Em Home at LBEH.org, May was Soldier’s Angels, June was Green Beans Coffee and July was Adopt-A-Bull.  Last month, between my friends wedding & all my distraction with the start of summer gardening, etc, I slacked off and didn’t do my monthly reminder post to buy something from TOPSTITCH on the 2nd. Thankfully, Yoyo still raised $134.00 for Adopt-A-Bull! So let’s keep the streak up for August and all buy something for Just A Dog.

Just A Dog is a pit bull rescue based in San Diego, California. You can read about them here, or check out the adoptable cuties they have here. But most importantly, on August 2nd, you can make a purchase from TOPSTITCH. 100% of all the purchases that day will go directly to Just A Dog. I love all animals, big & small, perfect & imperfect, naughty or nice… but I have a soft spot for the “underdog” (no pun intended)- the animals that had a rough start, the ones who’ve had unfortunate things happen to them, the disabled, the injured, the abandoned, the ones that get a bad rap. So for me, pit bulls really tug at my heart. They’ve been abused and used and tortured and then in turn labeled as such monsters that it’s heartbreaking. And if this page doesn’t make you in the least sad, then you’re just an asshole. We have to really start retraining ourselves to not assume that a few dogs can represent an entire breed no more than a few people represent an entire race or religion. Breed Specific Legislation needs to stop as well. Our dog Indy is part Staffordshire Bull Terrier, which is another dog under the “pit bull” umbrella, and it would kill me to see anything happen to him because of the  random fact that part of his DNA is a “bully breed.” He’s the most loving, sweet, and cuddly dog ever, and so are any and all pit bulls I’ve ever met.

So again, what am I asking of you?

I’m asking you to buy something from TOPSTITCH on August 2nd. That’s TOMORROW. You have one whole day to prepare, and then once it’s actually August 2nd, you have a whole 24 hours to make a purchase. It doesn’t have to be a big purchase… even a small $2.00 order can mean a lot to an organization that needs money to help people who need it. So go check out what TOPSTITCH has to offer and then tomorrow, don’t forget to go back and buy something! Yoyo has a ton of awesome, unique, handmade one of a kind merchandise in her store- pouches, mini-pouches, key fobs, wristlets, APRONS, even catnip toys for your kitty! Everything is very well made and even better, made with love. The bigger pouches are great for carrying your makeup in your bag everyday or for using as a small purse to just run to the store with, and the smaller pouches are the perfect size for personal items & “unmentionables.” Although the small ones can also fit a camera or iPod too. I definitely have been making my contributions each month, and so has Brianne! So then should you. She has plenty of affordable items, and they’re all one-of-a-kind and well made. So please think about contributing to this cause and in return getting an awesome handmade item! What could be better than helping people and getting something unique in return?

And don’t just shop at TOPSTITCH today, shop there everyday. Because we should all support our local artisans and craftspeople! Buy handmade!

Every month in 2010, as you can see here, my GENEROUS & BIG HEARTED friend Yoyo is donating 100% of one days’ profits in her webstore to a different charity. January was the Villalobos Rescue Center, February was the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program, March was Mollie’s Fund, April was Let’s Bring ‘Em Home at LBEH.org and May Soldier’s Angels. And through doing this every month, Yoyo has raised $313.00 total for the above mention charities. Let’s keep it going. This month it’s Green Beans Coffee. What is Green Beans Coffee, exactly?

Green Beans Coffee Company got its start with, and has a unique dedication to, the troops of the United States military. Within our cafes at home and around the world, Green Beans Coffee offers the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces the highest quality coffee and tea beverages in an inviting environment where soldiers, airmen, sailors and marines can relax and feel at home.

U.S. Army personnel at nearby Eskan Village caught word about the new coffeehouse, and soon after, invited Jason to open a cafe on the US Army base. Within months of operating at Eskan Village, the Air Force extended an invitation for a further 3 locations at the Prince Sultan Air Base, in Al-Kharj KSA.

Today, Green Beans Coffee Company serves military personnel in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kyrgyzstan, Kuwait, Qatar, Djibouti, Africa and domestically at military bases across North America. The company has not only grown in locations, but also in its mission to support our men and women in uniform.

Our twelve-year heritage of supporting those that put their lives at stake in service to our country is firmly rooted and non-negotiable. That tradition of caring is the foundation of our operating philosophy and carries over in our commitment of giving back on a national level, where a portion of every sale is donated to charities like TAPS and Soldiers Angels that strive to improve the life for disabled armed services members, military families and their children.

So again, what am I asking of you?

I’m asking you to buy something from TOPSTITCH on June 2nd. That’s TOMORROW. You have one whole day to prepare, and then once it’s actually June 2nd, you have a whole 24 hours to make a purchase. It doesn’t have to be a big purchase… even a small $2.00 order can mean a lot to an organization that needs money to help people who need it. So go check out what TOPSTITCH has to offer and then tomorrow, don’t forget to go back and buy something! Recently Yoyo has added a ton of new merchandise to her store- pouches, mini-pouches, key fobs, wristlets, APRONS, even catnip toys for your kitty! Everything is very well made and even better, made with love. The bigger pouches are great for carrying your makeup in your bag everyday or for using as a small purse to just run to the store with, and the smaller pouches are the perfect size for personal items & “unmentionables.” Although the small ones can also fit a camera or iPod too. I definitely have been making my contributions each month. So should you. She has plenty of affordable items, and they’re all one-of-a-kind and well made. So please think about contributing to this cause and in return getting an awesome handmade item! What could be better than helping people and getting something unique in return?

And don’t just shop at TOPSTITCH today, shop there everyday.

Thanks for teaching me that kitchen disasters (and life disasters) aren’t always as bad as they seem.

For letting me be myself, even if that meant outrageous clothing choices and varied hair colors.

For sticking up for me and having my back even if you (or others) didn’t understand the methods to my madness.

For giving me all the cooking and baking knowledge and skills to have a website like this in the first place.

For teaching me to be a good, compassionate, intelligent & most importantly independent person.

But also teaching me not to be a doormat, to stand up for what I think is right and to think for myself.

For putting up with my craziness and even at times encouraging it.

And for letting me know that no matter who I am or what I do, I’ll always have someone believing in me.

I love you. To you and all the other awesome mom’s out there…

Every month in 2010, as you can see here, my GENEROUS & BIG HEARTED friend Yoyo is donating 100% of one days’ profits in her webstore to a different charity. January was the Villalobos Rescue Center, February was the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program, March was Mollie’s Fund, April was Let’s Bring ‘Em Home at LBEH.org and this month it’s Soldier’s Angels. Soldier’s Angels is an organization that provides “adopters” with soldier “adoptees” to send packages and letters to while stationed far away from home. They send care packages themselves and accept donations as well, here’s more from their website:

To date, our volunteers have sent hundreds of thousands of care packages and letters to deployed service members; we have supplied the wounded with our First Response Packs directly at the Combat Support Hospitals in Iraq and Afghanistan and the major military hospital in Germany, as well as provided care and comfort to those in stateside military and VA facilities; we have provided emergency aid to military families in need; we have partnered with the Department of Defense to provide voice-controlled/adaptive laptops to nearly 3,000 severely-wounded servicemembers, as well as other technology that supports rehabilitation; we have provided flights to soldiers on leave or in emergency situations, and to their families wanting to be with them upon return from overseas; we have provided Level III KEVLAR armored blankets to give personnel extra protection in their vehicles when it was needed; we help to honor and uphold the families whose loved ones have paid the ultimate price for our freedom and safety. With the assistance of our generous supporters , the many volunteers of Soldiers’ Angels have accomplished this and much, much more on behalf of the grateful citizens of the United States of America.

So again, what am I asking of you?

I’m asking you to buy something from TOPSTITCH on May 2nd. That’s this SUNDAY. You have two whole days to prepare, and then once Sunday comes, you have a whole 24 hours to make a purchase. It doesn’t have to be a big purchase… even a small $2.00 order can mean a lot to an organization that needs money to help people who need it. So go check out what TOPSTITCH has to offer and then on Sunday, don’t forget to go back and buy something! Recently Yoyo has added a ton of new merchandise to her store- pouches, mini-pouches, key fobs, wristlets, APRONS, even catnip toys for your kitty! Everything is very well made and even better, made with love. The bigger pouches are great for carrying your makeup in your bag everyday or for using as a small purse to just run to the store with, and the smaller pouches are the perfect size for  personal items & “unmentionables.” Although the small ones can also fit a camera or iPod too. I definitely have been making my contributions each month. So should you. She has plenty of affordable items, and they’re all one-of-a-kind and well made. So please think about contributing to this cause and in return getting an awesome handmade item! What could be better than helping people and getting something unique in return?

And don’t just shop at TOPSTITCH today, shop there everyday.