Bagelocity & The Soup King

What's Shakin'?

2011-11-16T17:24:00.002-05:00

So our annual Halloween Celebration was a great success despite the insane weather.....Everyone had a great time...the DJ did a great job. "Big Brother" had so much fun he was dancing in his underwear by the end of the night. "The Soup King" did not see the end of the night..he was out by 11pm..Oh my! "Irish Chick" was the same way..couldn't hang! We a had an old friend stop by with great costumes and everyone seems to believe that he is responsible for the drinks that put them over the edge....ya never know...

Business is picking up quickly...We are making more and more soups everyday. Right now we have Cream of Chicken and Rice. Tomorrow we will be making Cheeseburger Soup, back by popular demand. I am also working on Beef Broth so we can make Beef Stew and a Steak and Potato soup. Don't forget to stop in next week we should have a turkey soup special for the holiday!

All of the "Little Ones" are just rollin' along with life right now. Can't believe that the holidays are right around the corner!!! I do not even want to think about it.

We all had a great day working today...bouncing around chatting with our guests!!! We all seemed to enjoy ourselves...Stop in and say hello!!! We miss ya!!!

WHAT????

2011-10-17T10:30:00.002-04:00

So last week was very exciting and stressful all at the same time. We had our air conditioning units stolen from the roof. We were 2 of 13 units taken. It was just so much fun...Our Bagel Guy asked me why our ladder was out and I just assumed that "Big Brother" was up on the roof on Sunday...and never put it away. A few hours later the ladies from the day care asked us about the ladder...because their units were gone. Then we checked...The chain was cut from our ladder! So of course I call "Big Brother" OMG!! You have to get here quick our ac units were stolen...just crazy. The police were here asap...very nice did their thing with pictures and DNA stuff. The property manager didn't get here til after the police were gone...Blah Blah Blah...

Of course it was warm last week...busy and warm...No air conditioning..we were dying! No one knew what was going to happen with the air conditioning...no news...So today...I hear noise and see things being tossed from the roof...who knew that they would be doing work today! The air conditioning is being replaced today. Surprise! Notification is always nice..common courtesy...I am a woman so guess not!! They came in and asked for "Boss Man" which everyone does..."Big Brother" knows how that makes me so he felt bad for the guys when he heard that...lol...So we will see if things get done right....lets keep our fingers crossed. We just want to move forward and have the store at 100%....I really don't think that is too much to ask...

On our soup note we have Tomato Bisque with Shrimp...Very good. We will be working on our Winter Squash this week and Our Pumpkin Soup!!! Very exciting...

We also want everyone to know that we will be closed on October 29th due to an annual family event. We will reopen on Monday at 6am as usual...Come dressed or have some sort of Halloween item and you can get a free cup of soup!!!! How fun is that!!!

Here Comes the Cool Weather!!!

2011-10-05T09:40:00.002-04:00

Welcome Fall!! Hope everyone is adjusting well to the cool weather...This is my favorite time of year. I love the changing of colors and the smell of the crisp air. Plus I get to wear a hoodie and shorts! Love it!!

We will be working on major specials....Today we have Cream of Chicken and Rice. I am working on Pumpkin Soup, and we will have or Winter Squash as well. Check out our website for our winter hours.

Make sure you ask for samples when stopping in...we want everyone to enjoy their meal so if you sample our soups you know what to expect before sitting down...Some examples might be how spicy something is or how thick another soup might be. Some of our recipes go way back to great-great-great grand mom so the one you pick might be a "Stick to your bones" type of soup. We respect all comments, good bad, and indifferent....we will do our best to accommodate but remember, our recipe is our recipe.....If we changed it every time some one made a suggestion our consistency would be off....We do however make minor adjustments if and when needed....if you order the Split Pea and you find it too thick just ask and we can add some broth for you, personal preference is the key.

Out and About!

2011-09-15T10:36:00.002-04:00

This weekend brings a new event for us! We will be at Parx Casino on Saturday, September 17th from 12pm to 3pm with lots of samples for all to taste! It is a fundraiser to help support our local boy scout troops! Its called "A taste of Bensalem". There will be lots of vendors there with tons of yummy things for everyone to try. They are asking for $10.00 at the door....Come on....it will be fun!

Of course we have had another hickey repeat but with someone new..oh fun..and yes again, go home..come back when its gone! Oh the drama!! Keep your relationships to yourself...ugh...young and dumb I must say!

Any way, all are back to school but "Little Miss Responsible" CEC is on strike and who knows when it will be done!!! "Drama" loves Nazareth she is having a great time so far...There is an open house on September 25th if anyone would like to check out the school!! I love the on-task college prep schedule that begins their freshman year!!! "Frik and Frak" are moving along doing their work and caring for their duck. yes, we are down to one duck...One passed away last week suddenly and they were devastated....Oh my....

Well I guess we are all caught up on our events...Stop in say high..its just about soup time all the time so we are ready and waiting with smiles for all!

Working on and on..

2011-09-15T10:30:00.002-04:00

We have Italian Wedding Soup this week. it is moving pretty fast so stop in and get a taste before it is all gone! I will be working on chicken pot pies...hopefully by October 1st I have them ready to go.

Well "The Soup King" and I had a wedding over this past weekend...It was fun...I was wowing out!! I have been tanning and exercising so I look good in my "Wow-Out" dress...I ordered great shoes from Victoria's Secrete which were way high!!! Fun time...I looked good! Yeah!

Now I need to prep for my niece's wedding at the end of the month....what to wear to that one...We will have to wait and see!

Earthquake...Hurricane??

2011-09-15T10:23:00.002-04:00

So haven't blogged in a while....What is up with Mother Nature?? The earthquake was felt in our store...Wild day..."Ya-Ya" thought that a car hit the building, "Shooter" was yelling at "Legend" to stop shaking the merchandiser, I thought I was just shaking the table while cleaning up...It was crazy. We still can't believe how they made an entire day out of it for the news after it happened..Oh my...

Now the hurricane...AGH!!! Let's prep...We did a good job getting ready for that. "Big Brother" ran and got dry ice just in case we lost power. Thank God he did...we lost power for two days!! So yes we had repeat visits for more dry ice. We did not lose anything which was wonderful since the Thursday before the hurricane I made 39 gallons of soup! I would have cried! Regrouping on Tuesday after the hurricane was a little challenging but we survived! It was a little crazy!!!

"Look at all these rumors surrounding me everyday!!! "

2011-08-19T09:09:00.002-04:00

Ok...anyone know who sung that song and what year it came out?? It is a definite classic!!!

Rumor has it that we have been shut down due to pest control issues...lets put the rumor-mill to rest by letting everyone know that 1...we have not had any issues what so ever with pest control at our place of operation...(I would be very upset if we did!!!)2...the board of health passed our store without any issues or health code violations at our 6 month inspection....and 3...and most importantly...any one, meaning..."Joe Public...aka you, the people" have the ability to view any and all inspections done by the board of health...please feel free to check up on us at any time....we are happy to share any and all information to ensure your clean, safe, positive, and enjoyable visit with us. Thank you for your patronage!

Yes, more drama going on...rumor this, rumor that....I guess any talk is good talk because then people are talking! I just wish that people would just let people live. Our mothers told us growing up that if we didn't have anything nice to say then don't say anything at all....Come on parents!! Step up!!! Act accordingly and teach your children how to act accordingly...I try to impose that motto on my own children and on the young people who work here. Let's be nice.

On a soup note...we have Strawberry Prossecco and Crab soup today...you know you would like to try some!!! Stop in...enjoy a smile and a good meal!!! See ya soon!!! Oh and for the drama....at least we have something to laugh about!!

Can we just move on from the drama already?

2011-08-15T16:23:00.002-04:00

We have Apple, Carrot Celery Soup this week...something new to try for the end of summer. I will be making Crab soup again this week...we had a few requests for it at lunch today.....

Things are picking up around the store. Our website is finally up and running! You can find us at either www.bagelocity.com or at www.thesoupking.com . Both will give you our menu, our store hours, and some info about us! It looks great...Thanks to my friend Bill MacAdams!!!! We still have lots of menus going out in the mail..keep your eyes open for them...lots of coupons to use!!!

So high school drama has not escaped me...I thought that once I grew up and had my own family that drama would be behind me. Of course not. Girls, old or young are all the same. Catty and mean and never know how to move on or let things die....We have had drama for sometime over in-house dating, which is against store policy, the hickey issue....ugh really? Now the threat of retaliation...Come on...the best of it is..the parents participate and feed the vindictive behavior. What is wrong with agreeing to disagree? This is why society has so many issues with our youth...No accountability and no sense of morals...It makes me very sad.

Once something has happened we need to let it go. Dwelling on things only breeds hate and anger. Is it necessary? Not in my opinion. Right or wrong it really does not matter. Everyone has to walk in their own shoes and live with their choices. Out of respect for one another, let it go.....We have..We haven't even given these issues a second thought until the threat was made. Again, very sad.

Friendships have been lost over silly behavior and a conflict of opinion. I cannot change that...I was told by my mother that we all only have three friends throughout our whole lives..the rest of the people that we meet, who claim to be friends are only acquaintances. My mother has always been right.

"Big Brother" is working hard at both jobs for right now...."Ya-Ya" has been on vacation since last week...I can't wait til its my turn!!!! I just want to take all of my "Little Ones" and go somewhere to just be together and hang out!!! "The Boy" and "Drama" have been securing the home front while we work..
Little Miss Responsible" has been helping bright and early at 5am over the last week or so and she can't wait for "Ya-Ya" to get back!!! "Shooter" was away on a cruise but is finally back and working multiple areas now!! We love it!

Well the story could go on or have more info but I would rather focus on the positives!! I will keep you posted!!! Have a great day and remember to always smile...you use less energy to smile then you do to frown!!! :)

Holy Hot!!!!

2011-07-23T07:24:00.002-04:00

Despite the heat the store was busy til about 2pm....we were out of a lot of bagels and everything! Redhouse decided to shut down their ovens because of the heat...Everyone is melting...I event think the bagels feel that it is too hot! We do have Gazpacho for a refreshing treat right now...Strawberry soup came and went quickly. We are also at the end of our Crab soup so stop in and grab so while you can...

So after it calmed down in the store yesterday, maybe around 2:30 - 3:00 "Big Brother" and I decided to send "Little Miss Responsible" and "Miss Thing" to get us soft icecream....While they were gone two guys came in and ordered food...very cool, they sit down are eating. The girls return with our ice cream..."Big Brother" and I sit down at the table behind them(we always sit at this pareticular table) look out the window and then almost fall out of our chairs at how bad the park job is from the icecream run! So of course we are mean and start teasing "Little Miss Responsible" by saying, "OMG you almost hit the car next to you", "What kind of park job is that...." just on and on about the car next to her and how she might as well as parked on it...In the midst of this the two guys at the other table are on the phone..."Big Brother" tells "Shooter" to start a BLT on white..I look around, no one new entered the store...so I ask "Why are u making him make food?" "Big Brother" replies, "they are taking food home with them". Now I am thinking is he forcing food out of the store....no..he was litsening to their phone call! Back to teasing about the car we go...he was wrong on the toast, wheat not white..now I call him Stalker....All the while these two guys are still listening to us...The car that was almost hit....Was theirs! Could not believe it when they walked out our doors and climbed into the car right next to our bad park job! Oh my! I can only imagine what they must be thinking about all of us!!!!!

Super Chevy was a fun time last weekend..not too hat til Sunday thank GOD! "Little Miss Responsible" ran a 13.18, the fastest "The Soup King's" car has ever run until he raced in the 3rd round and did a 13.15. But I do have to say that she is not chasing RPMs, he is.....I see a new racer in our house! lol...

Of course we return to our normal teenage drama that I could just soot myself over but what can we do...Our website should be launched by the end of this week so be ready to check us out on line!!!!! YEah Baby!!!!

One Crazy Summer....

2011-07-13T11:41:00.003-04:00

Cold soups have been limited so far...I know when will there be a larger variety? I need more people to stop in and try them then I can make more. Thursday, July 14th We will have Strawberry Soup! Everyone loves this one! We are operating under our new hours right now so everyone remember to call or check the door....Our website should be completed by next week!! It will have our menu up, our hours, some fun photos and contact information!

Of course we have our daily drama rockin' around the store amongst the teens....."Drama" is enjoying her enrichment program at her high school. "Wombat" and "Boo" have begun a little date thing or a something which has caused drama between "Wombat" and "Little Miss Responsible" I just do not understand....It has been crazy but I guess they will all learn the hard way of how to handle any type of relationship in their lives...I just hope they do not hurt each too much..."Little Miss Thing" has been handling the drama well since there were some feelings between "Boo" and her as well...Oh what tangled webs we weave!!!

Super Chevy weekend takes place this weekend at Maple Grove RaceWay...This will be "Little Miss Responsibility'" first time actually running "The Soup King's" camaro!! We are all very excited! Hopefully next year we can have a race car with the store logo!

Keep an eye open for new menus to reach you at home! We are doing a mailing for the menus......plus there will be about 4 or five coupons in the menu!!! We are also going to be in the clipper with a great deal to by gift cards for the store...Just an FYI for everyone!! See everyone soon!

Hit the Movies....

2011-06-29T18:08:00.003-04:00

So we went to see the Transformers movie last night at 12:01...It was awesome!! All of the "Little Ones" enjoyed every last bit of it!!! I have to admit, so did I...even though I really just wanted to go to bed. I was crabby when we were leaving...then all 9 of us pile in my truck to head to the show..Of course I am barking, "just get in already"..Then "The Soup King" starts the car..what plays on the radio, my CD to teach Italian..All of the "Little Ones" are laughing because they have no idea what it is. As we pull out of the drive way, we are all now repeating the new words that we are learning! It was great! So anyway, why is it that we love Optimus Prime so much and he isn't even real? Go figure...

"Big Brother" is back to working at his trucking job for now...Yes he is very tired. He goes in at 2am, works til 10am then shows up at the store to work til we close...Makes me exhausted just thinking about it! Soon "Big Brother" that we not be necessary! The "Young Ones" are all working hard this summer...We have them schedule a lot but they all do a great job so we enjoy it.

Chicken Corn Chowder is done and ready for you to enjoy! Thursday I will be making Crab soup. Get some before you head to the shore!

Oh My!!!!

2011-06-21T16:35:00.003-04:00

So we had to replace the air conditioning last week...What an event that was! At least the store will not be 100 degrees again...The job is done, the place is cool..almost cold! Sometimes I put my hoodie on! Love it!

So we did our six month evaluation...oh my is all I can say...Its nice to know that we have been trying to stay competitive price wise with the other businesses around us but for goodness sakes...we are at a loss right now....Between our rent increasing and giving our product away this unfortunately means that we need to raise some of our prices which we are very "salty" about. I really do not like change but if I want our doors to stay open we have to do it...Our website will have all of the new prices for our sandwiches...and we will have new menus in two weeks or so....I am sorry but we want to maintain our quality of product so this is a necessary evil....Please remain faithful!

We will offer more perks, check our face book page for the word of the day to gain a discount!! And don't forget about our $5.00 lunch deal we have that will help!!!! Keep the faith we will have new menus with coupons in them and everything....Trust us we want the best for everyone!!! Stop in and chat with us if you are concerned about any of these issues!!!

Sorry to Say we have New Hoagie and Sandwich prices starting today…
Hoagies: Served on a fresh baked long roll with chips and pickles
6” 12”
• Ham & Cheese 3.99 4.99
• Turkey 4.99 5.99
• Roast Be 5.29 6.29
• I Italian 5.49 7.49
• American 3.99 4.99
• Turkey & Roast Beef 5.05 6.05
• Homemade Chicken Salad 4.99 6.49
• Homemade Tuna Salad 4.99 6.49

Sandwiches: served on your choice of a fresh baked bagel, Kaiser Roll, white, wheat, or rye bread with chips and fresh pickles
• Ham & Cheese 3.99
• Turkey 4.99
• Roast Beef 5.29
• BLT 4.49
• Grilled Cheese 3.99
• Turkey Club 5.89
• Homemade Chicken Salad 5.89
• Homemade Tuna Salad 5.89

Summer Time..Summer...Summer Time!!

2011-06-20T11:00:00.002-04:00

It has been a while but we are back on track. "Drama" and "Boo" graduated this month so there was a bit of distraction for "Big Brother" and myself but we are focused again....Right now we have three specials..Italian 3 Bean Soup, Cream of Chicken and Rice, and Crab Soup. Stop in and enjoy! Don't forget about our $5.00 Lunch deal!!!

School is out and the "Little Ones" are restless already...looking for fun stuff to do..We have a lot going on this week. The health inspector was in last week and passed us without any issues what so ever, which is awesome!!! We also have 4 team members sitting for their Serv-Safe certification...study study!!! The test is hard but use your noggin!!!

"Crash" is back to work finally..we were missing him..."Little Miss Responsible" will be a lot this summer too... "Boo" and "Miss Thing" are away for Senior week but they will be back soon and ready to work! Now if I could just catch a small trip of my own I would feel complete!!!

The Strawberry Soup seems to have gone over the best so far with everyone. I am a little leery about making the others...cold soups scare people....They are odd and require a specific type of taste buds to enjoy...I just don't know!!! Well come on and visit!!!! See ya soon!!!

Summer Hours

2011-05-28T03:11:00.006-04:00

"Customer Appreciation Day" was a success!!! We had a lot of fun....games for the kids and music to jam to all day was just really cool! I can't wait for the one year party!!!

So we have come up with summer hours, Monday thru Saturday we will be open from 6am to 3pm, Saturday and Sunday 7am to 3pm...starting June 21st to October 1st. Trying to evaluate the best hours was a challenge..We just figure that with how the winter will be we should take some time for family...They hardly remember who we are right now...lol...Yes we expected that but the winter time, I think I will set up a bed in the back next to the kettles so I can just make soup all day and night!

"Ya-Ya" and "Big Brother" are certainly enjoying working together...they have the most interesting conversations! Sometimes I wonder how they even get started with some of their topics. "Hollywood" will be busy singing and DJing all over this summer..we will have to list her show dates and all that fun stuff! Anyone up for a night??? All of the "Little Ones" are anxious to be done with school for the summer..as am I but I really have no idea what they plan to do??

So the air conditioning does not work right in the store...I am out of my mind! I do not like the heat...this is why I left Florida!!! We are working on getting this issue corrected....When we do the store should feel great since I like to see my breath!!!

The cold soups have seemed to make a positive impression on many!! Our Strawberry Prossecco was by far the biggest hit! Now I have to work on making it a few times a week! Yummy stuff...I think next week I will work on the Apple Soup! Always looking for something new!

"Big Brother" is heading out for a golf outing this week...Should be fun! Five days...Oh my! I hope I don't go insane!!! I can't wait to take a vacation and just hang out with my "Little Ones"! I miss them....

Stop in....check out our $5.00 Lunch...eat smile and be happy! See ya soon!

Party Time...

2011-05-18T15:30:00.002-04:00

French Onion Soup has made it out to the floor...We also have Texas Chili and Vegetable Beef Barley for fun new soups this week. We will have cold soups at our "Customer Appreciation Day" on Sunday. Stop by for some fun!

Things have been crazy due to "Little Miss Responsible","Crash", and "What What" having prom last weekend. Everything went off wonderfully. We had my truck detailed by Aces Detailing and of course it looked fabulous! This weekend is senior prom so "Boo" and his girlfriend will be out having fun...We are excited for them!

Sunday should be a blast we are going to have games and prizes. We have a great basket to raffle off and a Razor scooter! Tickets are free and you can get a ticket with every visit! Fun stuff....Mardi Gras Beads to give out....show me your bagels and I will throw you some beads! lol.....(Just Kidding) There are beads just for fun! The DJ will be here all day along with a fabulous face painter...Very exciting!!! Stop by!! Have some fun!!!!

Cream of Chicken And Rice...

2011-05-03T10:41:00.002-04:00

Cream of Chicken and Rice is ready for all...smells and looks beautiful. On to the next soup. I will be working on some cold soups this week...Let's see what we can come up with.

Everyone is moving along well in the store. "Hollywood" and "Ya-Ya" have a nice rhythm that works for getting things done quickly. "Big Brother" has settled into his routine very nicely....I am very proud of him...!! Sshh..don't tell him! We have to keep him on his toes!! Which I do a lot! "Survivor Woman" has been working two days a week which is a big help...We still have a few people in our family that need names but I am just drawing a blank.

I am very excited about our "Customer Appreciation Day"...the face painter has been confirmed and the DJ as well. We are working on a song about the store to be performed by "Hollywood" herself...that should be fun! We have some great games lined up..."Stack the Bagels", "Bagel Toss", an "Egg Toss", and a few others that we are working on...It should be a great day for all...I am making two baskets to raffle off..."Family Fun Night" basket and I think a "Beach Themed" basket might be the other!!! Stop by and try some of our cold soups...We will have free cookies and brownies for everyone who stops by...

I am also hoping to have our Watermelon Soup that day...it makes a great treat! Fresh squeezed watermelon juice over fresh cantaloupe and honeydew with ice cold sherbert!! So good I can't wait to make it!!! You know that you want to try it!!!! Stop by......it will be fun!

Plan of Attack...

2011-05-01T13:26:00.002-04:00

So I guess its time for us to advertise...things have been a little quiet over the last two weeks. We have a coupon in the Bucks County Courier Times for our $5.00 lunch..We are also going to be advertising our "Customer Appreciation Day", keep your eyes open for all of that info.

The calm is almost refreshing......but I guess we need to maintain a certain level of craziness in the store...It keeps things fun. We are working on set hours for the warm weather. Looks like Monday will be another early day for us, we will be closing at 3pm starting May 1st..

Cold soups, well I would like to have Apple Soup made by Wednesday so everyone can try it for lunch....Keep your fingers crossed for me!!!

New Lunch Deal....

2011-04-27T11:34:00.002-04:00

We now have a great deal for everyone! We will be starting our $5.00 Lunch on Friday, April 29th. It will run through July 1st 11am to 2pm, Monday through Friday. For $5.00 you will have your choice of a 6" hoagie, sandwich, small salad, or cup of soup with a can of soda and bag of chips. The sandwiches and hoagies are limited to ham and cheese, turkey, roast beef, and grilled cheese. Pretty good deal for lunch!

Things have been a little quiet around the store front but it has been very hot and I have not put any cold soups out yet...I will be checking the weather and planning the soups a little better. I am looking forward to making Apple Soup!!! Sounds and looks yummy!!!! Come on in....breakfast is always bangin'..."Ya-Ya" makes a great bagel sandwich!!!

Chicken Corn Chowder Anyone?

2011-04-26T12:26:00.003-04:00

Hope everyone had a great holiday. We enjoyed our day off...I know I did anyway...But anyway, back to work! We have a rat sandwich for everyone to try. BBQ Chicken with tomato and lettuce on your choice of bread, bagel, or kaiser roll...$5.95. We also have Chicken Corn Chowder ready for today. I just finished making the yummy treat!

We have a had a sad loss. "Ralph" had to say good bye to his best friend Caesar yesterday. We will all miss him. He was a great dog and family member!! Sorry Daddy..We were all wondering where "Ralph" was all day yesterday...we missed him!

Don't forget to mark your calendars..May 22nd Customer Appreciation Day..games and give aways for everyone!!! Face painting too!! Stop in and get some info...

Holidays Approach Once Again

2011-04-20T04:52:00.002-04:00

Cheeseburger Soup is back in the store by popular demand. Try it topped with cheddar cheese and bacon...yummy...taste like a bacon cheeseburger. The holiday weekend has brought up some concern with the family. That means trying to discuss our hours of operation. We have decided to close early on Saturday, 3pm and to not open on Easter Sunday. Everyone should be with their families for the day. We hope that everyone understands and appreciates our decision. We will reopen again on Monday at our usual 6am.

So much drama has transpired I really don't know where to begin....I guess the best thing to do is to not acknowledge it, but what fun is that? I think everyone needs to understand that when someone behaves inappropriate in our place of business or looks inappropriate in our place if business, it becomes our business. I am happy to mind my comments and my own business in my place of business. The fun part about the drama is that I have learned that there is no point in arguing with a fool because they will drag you down to their level and beat you with experience. Needless to say a generalized statement has hit home and most people can not deal with the truth. Nothing to do but just keep our distance and move on....again, Good luck with things....

May 21st will bring a great day for all of us, we will be having a "Customer Appreciation Day" to say thank you to everyone who has supported us since we opened our doors. We will have games for the kids to play, face painting, a DJ, baskets to raffle off, and fun give aways. Stop by between 11am and 4pm on May 21st to enjoy what we have to offer. Look for it in the paper.....Have a great day and enjoy the holiday!

And so it goes...

2011-04-15T15:47:00.002-04:00

So if anyone has been embarrassed or distressed by my earlier comments, I am really sorry. If my own child showed up to work with this issue, the same thing would have occurred. Just irony that things work out this way....So again I apologize for voicing an opinion and not wanting this type of behavior to occur.

Word to the wise, never mix business with friends...never works out.

As the Soup Sells....

2011-04-15T06:56:00.003-04:00

Drama at the store has been so very interesting this week. They has been a lot of giggling and fun for lunch. "Big Brother" and "Ya-Ya" have been caught in some interesting conversations by customers....Remember family business.....lol...

The best is that we had a "young one" show up with hickeys all over his/her neck...I have been raised that this is like a dog marking their territory. My mother always frowned upon this type of behavior. So, I guess we all end up like our parents even when we swear it won't happen...I am the same way. The young one was told to go home and not to come back until the marks were gone. The individual was informed that when on my floor they are representing my family and "Big Brother"s family. This is not an image I want to portray. Then I proceeded to post a generalized statement on our facebook page about it saying, "Really? Hickeys??? So not acceptable for work....So you can be mad." I did not use names I did not specify who the individual was. IT gets better...The individual comments "Thanks for putting my business out there." Oh my! Now the individual has made it known who it was to the world, then proceeds to tell me that I am immature. Loving it! Just kills me that they think this is ok. Needless to say the individual quit. I am sure letting the parents think that I fired them. Gotta love being the bad guy.

"Ya-Ya" has a little stress in her life right now but is holding strong and doing what she needs to do..."Little Miss Responsible" is almost done lacrosse...so back to work she will be soon! "The Boy" has been working out a little better than usual. This is a definite plus. I had a tooth pulled this week so I am not a very happy camper...hopefully by Monday I am back to normal. "Hollywood" or "Do Re Mi" is doing her thing as she sings all day every day...We have a new chick working three days a week...It seems to be working out ok for now....keep your fingers crossed!

Crab soup is ready for all and we still have a little Minestrone left...Which happens to be my new favorite. I am working on some new soups for the next week...Can't wait to let loose and just cook!

The Lobster Soup is in the Pot!

2011-04-11T13:27:00.002-04:00

Lobster Bisque is done....I also made Minestrone today.....The warm weather has us questioning our hours. Especially our Monday hours. Monday is slow 90% of the time. Maybe we can have two early days...How nice for the staff (and myself, but I won't tell). The weekend was steady and eventful. We had a lunch tray that "Big Brother" almost forgot about, well sort of did, but we did it quick! lol...Sorry! I was off this Sunday for "Drama's" mass at Nazareth, very nice....I really want to sleep in one day but maybe Tuesday when I have my tooth pulled! We are working on our "Customer Appreciation Day" we are looking at a Saturday in May...DJ...yes music...games, balloons, face painting....all kinds of events and give aways!!! Come out and play!!! We missed a grand opening so this is the next best thing...actually I think this will be better! "Little Miss Responsible" finally passed her driving test and got her license...fun stuff. She is enjoying driving around and sleeping in a little later before school...Must be nice..I rode the bus during my high school career! Stop in and try the Lobster....very yummy and of course very hearty!!! See ya soon!

Giggles at the store..

2011-04-05T11:07:00.004-04:00

This morning has been lots of fun...we are laughing and just having fun. Over what...nothing, Great Adventure stories....all kinds of fun stuff. Working on cooking and just staying on top of things. I am taking Sunday off....yeah me! "Big Brother" was off last Sunday so, my turn......I just want to stay in my jammies for a day but things to do...proms to prep for.... I am working on making Italian Wedding Soup before the week is over if I am lucky and Lobster Bisque!!! Check in this week and see what's shakin'

Very Interesting Day....

2011-03-29T15:29:00.006-04:00

Today was a late start for me...yes I over slept and rushed in around 7:30...Oh my to say the least. I guess that was a good mishap for me though. We had an interesting event take place before I arrived. We had Cream of Chicken and Rice for our special yesterday. Very yummy I must say and "Big Brother" did a great job cooking. Anyway, this morning someone returned their quart of our special claiming that it was extremely salty....Ok...so we offer a sample from our kettle which we were informed was much better...not salty at all...Well, it was from the same batch! Our guest decided to salt and pepper their soup and then didn't like it and brought it back.....Come on now...we don't mind fixing mistakes or replacing some thing if you are not happy but really??? Just crazy stuff.....Of course "Big Brother" replaced it for her...he is the good guy...I just wish people were honest....maybe we need to start yelling "NO Soup For You!" at certain times of the day....I just don't know...we get something like this at least once a week...we just laugh, what else can you do?

"Ya-Ya" is off to the food show in Atlantic City to look for some yummy things to bring to our guests...So "Big Brother" will be ringing tomorrow and I will be on the griddle..which is something I swore I would never do!!! Who knew...lol....."What-What" just splashed her self with tomatoes! Our new shirts and hoodies are in and we are loving them! I want a black hoodie!!! We are still waiting for the hoodies for our little guys..they can't wait to have them!

Our Belmont Day was ok...I was hoping for bigger numbers for the day but things happen. We were able to donate $216.08 to the school so I guess every dollar helps. The balloon chick was awesome and so was the face painter! Even "Ya-Ya" had her entire face painted! Check out our facebook page for pictures.....

I will have Crab Soup for Friday. I am working on some other specials for next week....Maybe something yummy and new for this Thursday too. I can't decide what I want to do....decisions decisions!

The morale in the store has been great. Everyone is having fun and moving swiftly...which is what I like. We still need to work on managing a tighter ship with expenses but that will come with time...we are still working on start things which is oh so much fun.

So today I get to go home early...yes and clean my nasty messy home! The "Little Ones" will be so excited that they don't have to do it today! I can even fill out "Drama's" paperwork for Nazareth which of course Imissed the deadline for once again....I lose track of days and time in this place!! Its like a black hole that just sucks you in...lol

Everyone needs to keep their fingers crossed, "Little Miss Responsible" is going for her driver's license next Tuesday and she needs top pass! She bought her first car on Sunday and named it "Shawna"...So excited but not fun if she doesn't get her license!

So there are my issues and comments so far this week!!!! Stop in and share with us!!!! We like it fun!

Quick Update!!

2011-03-25T08:47:00.002-04:00

So we have the balloon chick coming from 1pm tp 3pm....We are so excited!!! Just wanted to let everyone know so you can have a cool balloon friend for the day and support Belmont Hills Elementary!!! Ok...back to cookin' soups! I am trying to bang out double batches of everything so we doa not run out of anything!!!

Oh man..."Drama" has rocked out 152 Chocolate Chip cookies so far and starterd on Sugar cookies...today brings the brownies!!! Yummy!

See everyone on Saturday!!!!

Belmont Family Fun Day...It's on It's Way!

2011-03-20T13:39:00.002-04:00

March 26Th will be a Belmont Hills Elementary Family Fun Day. 10% of our entire day's total sales will go back to the school. We will have a full staff ready to rock out whatever comes in...We even have a face painter coming from 2pm to 4pm. We are waiting to hear back from the balloon girl, let's keep our fingers crossed for that one!!!

It has been a while since I last posted anything....things have been busy and I have been sick, my "Little Ones" have been sick...just crazy. We have five extra soups in the house, Beer Cheese, Cheddar Potato, Crab, Manhattan Clam Chowder, and we did have Cream of Chicken With Rice but its gone!

We have more family members working..Another nephew has joined the team...not sure if he likes it enough to stay so we will have to wait and see...plus "The Boy" is back to working again...he is trying so I guess I can't get mad.

"Big Brother" has been up the mountains for the weekend...Things have gone pretty smooth. " Ya-Ya" worked on Saturday so she could teach "Bo" some pointers to improve his game! It went well...."Ya-Ya" was worried that she would be met with resistance but he was very receptive!!

Power went out in the whole shopping center on Friday...We didn't know what to do...the power was out for almost 30 minutes before we finally decided to close for the night. We only have so much time to maintain the integrity of our soups so we needed to get them hot or cool them down...Obviously cooling them down was the choice since we had no idea when the power would be back on. We got all the soups prepped to close and of course the power came back on at 4pm. I guess it was for the best since "Big Brother" was going away anyway and it was my little guy's birthday!

We are still working to make sure every guest gets the best product possible. If there are any issues please let us know right away so we can correct whatever it may be....We are not perfect and yes, sometimes mistakes happen...we strive for no mistakes but sometimes it just happens. If it does let us know and we will correct it with a smile.....

Just Keep Cooking.....

2011-03-01T23:10:00.002-05:00

Italian Three Bean has hit the floor today. Wednesday will bring maybe two new soups as well. I am trying to keep it interesting. I will work on the regulars in the morning but then will venture onto the Crab Soup. Just an FYI for everyone, I will do my best to have the specials done by lunch but sometimes it will take a 24 hour turn around from when I let everyone know what I am going to cook... Soups need to be loved and cared for before they venture out to be enjoyed! So remember, good things come to those who wait....

"Big Brother" and I have been beating each other up over the last week....Nothing major just normal day to day drama...I call him an idiot and he mumbles about me as he walks by...its all done with love.

We have a family fun day coming up for Belmont Hills on March 26th....Just a heads up since Saturdays are busy to begin with....Be prepared for a wait that day...we will do our best though! 10% of our total sales that day will go back to the school! We are also working on a clown for a set time on that day...waiting to hear back on it!

We have decided to not do a grand opening since we have been open for a bit now...We are planning a Customer Appreciation Day to say thank you to everyone for all of their support! Details will follow...be ready for a warm weather block party!!!!

Well after going in at 3am today I am off to bed to begin again.....Hopefully I can keep shakin my tail feathers to pump out the soups!!!! See ya soon!!!

What to Do....

2011-02-21T17:26:00.005-05:00

We had a slammin' weekend and everyone worked hard to try and please all of our guests....We had our "Rookie" crew on Saturday morning and they did well. Of course there is always room for improvement. I am learning that...and as much as I try to please everyone that will never happen. Please remember to sample your soup before your purchase. We offer this so that you, as our guest, know what you are getting before you pay. Will you like it, is it too salty....The sample offers you the chance to make that decision before you get home. Please take us up on our offer. We truly mean that you can sample every one of the soups before you decide.

I have finally mastered the New England Clam Chowder and make it a point to not run out of it. I am actually working hard at not running out of soup at this point. Some days we are making 40 to 50 gallons of soup. The challenging part is that some soups just need more time than others and being that they are from scratch it is a time consuming process to get them right. I rushed a soup this weekend and it ended up with way too much Chicken in it and I was very upset with it.....

My sister is working on a google site for us and is trying to get pictures of everyone working and completing things so it has a personal touch. Hopefully this will be done soon. I know the web site is in the works now....can't wait for that to be complete.

We have a few new recruits joining our forces this week so if you are in please be patient....everyone needs to learn or start out somewhere.

I have decided to change "Griddle Girl's " name to "Ya-Ya" it just fits! I am still working on some fun names for everyone...We should have a suggestion box for some of the fun people we have here!!

Well, Chicken Tortilla is the special for Friday....Playing catch up is always fun!!!

What Can We Do?

2011-02-14T21:13:00.002-05:00

So we are learning that you can not please everyone....That is so hard for me to swallow. I really try to make the best product for all of our guests....Everyone is entitled to their opinion I guess. On a more positive note, we have been crazy busy over the last week.

Saturday was out of control that I almost had a melt down. We ran out of bagels which is insane yes but we can only order so many at a time in order to keep them fresh....We try to explain that to our guests but some are not interested. We also try to crank out the bagel sandwiches quickly and accurately so sometimes there is a wait...We are doing our best...Again, can 't please everyone...The team was small this weekend...we worked really hard at doing things right...Sunday was just as crazy...so crazy that I, who never leave the store, left to get the bagels..We were down to two bagels in the store...INSANE!!!! We even doubled up our initial order for the morning because of Saturday's drama......I asked the "Redhouse Man" what to do and his response was, "hope for the best"...he said that they have the same issue in house as we do...we just have an additional 10 minutes for travel time...Yeah it was alot this weekend..."Crash" and I handled the griddle Saturday morning and "Bo" and "Big Brother" worked it on Sunday...The girls were shaking some serious tail feathers this weekend to keep up with the orders! Overall we did ok....

We have Crab Soup for tomorrow..it smells and tastes so good!!! I am really trying to maintain our everyday soups and add some extras in there as well..."Big Brother" gets a little worried that we have too much at times but why not....it keeps everyone guessing!

We are working on the web site...we have someone who is finally interested in taking care of it for us. Our new shirts and hoodies will be in by the end of the week...We are waiting for our "frequent buyer" cards to be printed...By 10 sandwiches get one bagel sandwich free, buy 10 bowls of soup get one free..Our sister, "Kirby" is working on our google site as well...I believe she is listing a coupon that you can print out and bring in! So exciting..Things are really starting to come together!

Stop in and visit...The WIFI is up and working...and there is always something fun going on in house!!! See ya soon!

Ready, Set , Plan!

2011-02-08T14:52:00.002-05:00

We are in the process of planning our grand opening fun stuff....how to make it work and to get people excited! Working progress.
The store has been very steady. Our web site is on its way. We finally have information on someone who will help us out with getting it set up. Until then we don not have a menu on line for you to see but it I hope to have that done sooner than later...There is so much to do and we never have time to get it all done. Our big sister has been handling a lot of technical stuff for us which makes life easier!

We are changing our hours so everyone get ready to eat more soup! Monday and Tuesday we will be opened 6am to 7pm, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday 6am to 8pm, Saturday 7am to 8pm, and Sunday 7am to 3pm. We have heard the requests for 8pm and we figured we would try to accommodate as best we can. "Big Brother" was resistant at first but he is all ready to make it happen for everyone!

So..we now have a nick name for our sandwich chick!! "Do-Re-Me"! She sings all the time and it is awesome! "Two-Face" or "Bo" has my brother calls him has been working hard keeping the grill under control on the weekends with his cousin "Crash". "Drama" and "Little Miss Responsible" have been at each other lately but we nipped that in the butt quickly.....My dad has a new name, "Ralph"...he tells everyone to call him Ralph...don't know why but he does and they all do..."Zinger" jumped right back into her grove with keeping things under control out front...I'm sure she would rather be on her cruise again but we are glad she is back! "Trouble", "Griddle Girl" or "GG" has lots of things going on but she stays on track! Love it! We have a great new family here and I hope that they all stay!

We finally have a system that works well..Our turn over time has improved massively and we are down to minimal mistakes on things which is an absolute bonus! We knew it would take a little time but we think we got it now.....The next phase is cranking out specials! Agh!!! This week we had Texas Chili, Southern Style Beef Stew, Cream of Chicken(which will be here to stay!), and Beef Vegetable...We are working on ideas for next week....Any ideas?? We have a few so I will work on those....Stop in and visit...we will be here...we always are!!! Have a great one!

It's Been Interesting!

2011-02-02T06:18:00.003-05:00

So its been about a week since my last hello....Things are still crazy..looks like Tuesday is our "slammin'" day. "Zinger" returns today. Yesterday "Drama" was off from school so she came in and worked all day. I'm tired just thinking about it!

Things have been a little off the wall at the store...We have cooked all kinds of specials...
we have new people in the family...We are still working on nick names for a few people..We have the food vendors going back and forth to try and win our business...just crazy stuff.

Where to begin is the ultimate question. The credit cards are up and running finally! We are ordering new shirts and hoodies....Time to plan the grand opening! We are working on the advertising and scheduling for the grand opening. We want to one be prepared, two have fun stuff set up for the entire week!

So "Zinger" is back in the house....but "Griddle Girl", aka "Trouble" has been out all week and we miss her very much! We have acquired a new family member....She is very cool and is pretty quick at cranking out the sandwiches...She calls everyone "mommy" which makes me laugh every time she says it! A nick name for her still leaves me lost....Maybe by tomorrow we can work one out! Our delivery guy, well we have been working on a name for him and I'm stumped....he is a baseball player and sometimes goofy...He gets called "Dunder head" here and there through out the day...yes, it is said with love!!! Our tech student is the help in the kitchen...helps me prep and he is fun to work with as well...just call him "KB" when you see him...he will laugh!

"Big Brother" is picking up the pace and finally catching his groove out front. Are we perfect yet, maybe not but we are trying really hard to get it right for everyone! Our sister ahs been working on getting our website done and new shirts in the store...she just keeps us all in line! It is awesome!

I will work on more info for everyone....I need to hit the pillow....this morning stuff is catching up to me! Stop in and try our Beef Veggie, Beef Stew, Texas Chili, or our Cream of Chicken...yes with no mushrooms!!!! See ya soon!!!!

Lunch Was Slammin'!

2011-01-25T22:51:00.004-05:00

Lunch was really busy today. "Zinger"is on vacation for the next few days so "Little Miss Responisble" came in after her exams to ring for us. She was wiped out after lunch. "Trouble" asked her if it was like that on the weekends and she just shook her head no...lol I hope everyone was happy with their orders today. We really tried to turn things over quickly...I know we had two minor issues but unfortunately things happen.

We are working with a friend to fine tune our system...He has helped us organize things and get an effective closing system in place. Now we need a system that runs smoothly with the rush that comes in...How does that work? Did I mention that "Big Brother" was a truck driver before this...no food experience what so ever??? I have a year or two under my belt but I still need work....So again, its a working progress.

I have decided that once the credit cards are up and running is when we are going to do our grand opening shin-dig! We have to do something soon....we also have to advertise because we rteally haven't done that either...Just the church bulletins....

I am hoping that we have something a little different than most places....We are all family at the store and we grew up here in the area. The sandwiches need to be fine tuned but we really try to give a little extra, besides it shold feel like home! We make all of our soups from scratch....broth and all!Plus, we are really trying to stay competive to other places with our pricing...I guess I have to accept that we cannot please everyone even though I want to!

The hours are still up in the air. We need to see how many people stop in befoer 7am. Maybe we can open at 7 on the weekends and not 6!!!! That would be good, I really don't like getting up at 4am everyday!!!! ugh!!!

Speaking of 4am, I am off to shower and bed.....i have a lot to share with all of you but I am tired today!!!! Check in tomoorw!!! Happy soup!

More Hours?

2011-01-20T21:32:00.002-05:00

The last few days have been steady but calm....All of the "Little People" worked on Monday for the holiday which was fun..."Trouble", our griddle girl had a good day with them...We have a new sandwich chick..She rocks out some awesome sandwiches and she does it quick! Loving it!

The week has been quiet for the most part but steady. I have been able to catch up with the soups and"Big Brother" is beginning to find his routine in the store. All good things. I finally made Winter Squash today. Not much of it but it is made!!! It was challenging...only because I really didn't want to make it...its a lot of work.

It was busy tonight. We had a very nice crowd in that had no issues with the minor wait for things. We did have a request last night and tonight to stay open until 8pm....More Hours! We already arrive at 4:30am and sometimes don't leave til 9pm.. I don't know if I could handle extra hours...It does make sense to be open til 8pm during the winter...It will take some work on my end to talk"Big Brother" into it! This whole morning thing is not so much fun...the 4am wake up call was one reason why I never finished nursing school...who knew I would be back to that in this lifetime.

I was told by the software people that I should have credit cards up and running by the end of this week so we will see what Friday brings us! Let's all hope for credit!

Everyone seems to be catching on to the routine for getting orders filled and picking up the passe at the same time. With time we should be able to rock everything out super fast without any errors..Maybe we can come up with a song to sing while we do our job like Cold Stone Creamery!! Where we lived in Florida when you gave them tips they sang to you! It was Awesome!

We are learning that we need to cut some costs at the store so we can get ahead, some being labor costs and others being food cost. Thank God we have someone to help us organize that stuff! (Yes, its a family member) Hey someone has to do it and we do not have time to look at all that stuff right now! Besides, he is great with numbers and then I get to see her! Even better....

I do miss my Florida friend very much! I haven't even had time to call her but I think of her every day just like a few of my other friends!!! Love you all and miss you all very much!!!! Well we will sum things up tomorrow...off to shower and bed so we can start over again! Good luck with the weather!!!!

Let's get a Handle on Things!

2011-01-16T19:24:00.003-05:00

We are trying to get a handle on things at the store....We need to maintain a consistent system with services and quality. That is the focus for this week. I want everyone happy. Yes I know that is challenging but I can try. We need to cut back on labor...there a few little people that can exit...sorry to say. There was way too much standing around on Saturday...not necessary! We have a system its just sticking to it now! Everyone gets crazy when a mad rush of people show up...no worries...take a little time and do it right and everyone is happy! My brain is spinning with ways to make this work...I have to figure out how to get everyone on board now!

Soups are almost caught up to the point that I can make the Butternut Squash....I know, I have been saying that for a week now! My goal is for Tuesday!!! I am off to bed so I can start bright and early tomorrow!!! See ya then!

I am dreaming of soup...

2011-01-14T23:31:00.002-05:00

There is soup everywhere I turn... I make so much soup I am dreaming about it. Today was another crazy day at the store. We have a few new team members, the jury is still out on some of them but everyone seems to be getting along. We have a lot of labor which I don't think is necessary but we will see how that goes for now.....Food is crazy as usual.

"Zinger" had an interesting day in the front today...stories from every direction keeping things very entertaining..Sorry that I was stuck in the kitchen. The night rush was a little messy tonight which wasn't expected. Usually things run smooth but something was off...I wonder who it was?

I need to sleep 4:30 comes too soon!!! See ya in the morning!

We Have A Special...

2011-01-12T21:54:00.003-05:00

We have made some progress...We have Chicken Corn Chowder as a special right now...If I am lucky I can rock out Butter Nut Squash for Friday. And yes, still trying to keep up with the demand for soup!!! In one pot, out of the other, in another pot, and sometimes three going at once!! Its a little crazy, but a good crazy I guess....So yes we are a little tired but it seems to be working out. "Big Brother" is hanging tough with all of these mad hours that we are putting in and we are starting to come up with some cool nick names for everyone! Loving that!

We have this cute, quiet girl on the register...she is so sweet and just all around nice. Well, her new name is "Zinger"..She cracks me up. We can start chatting about something and someone will make a wise crack and then out of no where comes a "Zinger" of a crack from her...yes that is how she got her new name! Our "Griddle Girl" needs a cool name. She is fun and always full of positive energy which is a great compliment to all of us..No we are not always nice to each other, well at least me and "Big Brother" aren't always nice to each other. I don't think he feels loved unless he gets is daily, "your an idiot" comment from me. Its all said with love, no worries. We also have a young man who has joined our team, we call him "Skywalker"...just because we can and we like it...My niece, well everyone wants to call her "Sarg" because she keeps everyone in line....The jury is still out on that one, I like "Chickie". My nephew who works the griddle, we call him "Crash" but I think that I mentioned that already. We work so much that I forget what I have talked about lately. lol

The family is holding down the fort while I am gone all day....and I mean all day...430am to at least 830pm....Crazy! "The Soup King" has been doing the wash and I came home to a cleaned kitchen tonight, it was great! I knew I would get him to clean one way or another. Now if he would just do the bathrooms!!!

So I am off to bed so I can rise ever so early to make the soup...We feel like that donut guy on the commercials from years ago....time to make the soup......

Stop in and check us out...we even have WiFi at the store!!! See ya soon! Stay warm.....

Soup, Soup, and More Soup!

2011-01-09T21:12:00.002-05:00

What else can we say except that we are sorry for the delay in turning soups out for you! We are trying to keep them all in stock but we never thought that we would get hit so hard so fast for orders. The kinks are slowly working themselves out right now. I have figured out how to maintain a constant flow of the soups but now I have to work in the specials. If I could stay out in the back and not help out front...it would be a done deal. Again, we never thought the demand would be so high so fast...

"Big Brother" is pushing along trying to keep everyone smiling when they walk through the door. We just ask that everyone understand that we want your food to be just right. We are trying to fill orders in a timely fashion but we are also trying to prevent errors. We are finding that orders are taking up to 10 minutes to fill and no, I am not happy about that but hot sandwiches take a little longer than prepping soup...We a have an idea for a system it is just getting the system followed that is a bit of a challenge. Sometimes I climb under my rep table in the back and hide!!! lol..(just kidding) We want our first impression to be a great one but we are not perfect so we can only try our best to please and satisfy everyone. If there is anything that needs to be changed feel free ti let us know but only if you are going to smile while telling us...no grumpy ones please...

I haven't figured out nick names yet, I don't think that I remember my own name at this point..maybe in the next week or so something will hit me. "Little Miss Responsible" has made a request for a name change to "Lead Foot" but I don't think so...My niece, well that should be an easy one...but I am drawing a blank..."Chickie" seems to stick in my mind since always say "hey Chickie" when I see her...I wonder what she will say about that?

So here is a run down of our soups...Broccoli and Cheese, Vegetable, Chicken Noodle, New England Clam Chowder, Potato and Ham, Split Pea and and Ham, Seafood Gumbo, Spicy South Western Black Bean, Cream of Chicken and Mushroom, and Tomato Basil. We are bringing you RedHouse Bagels so you know they are good just in another location! Breakfast sandwiches, Hoagies, and other sandwiches....We have not ventured into the wraps yet...I am very afraid of them!!! We also have salads to offer, Garden Caesar, Mandarin and Chef....Our brownies are awesome, chocolate chip cookies made from scratch and by the weekend we should have homemade toffee butter cake!!! IT is awesome!!!!!! We can be reached at 215-245-SOUP(7687) Remember to just hang in there with us and hopefully over the next few weeks we have it down like a science!!! Thanks for giving us a try and we hope you keep coming back and to remember, if we aren't laughing behind the counter then we would be crying under my prep table!!! Have a great Monday everyone!

The Store is Rockin'

2011-01-08T18:45:00.004-05:00

"Big Brother" and I are exhausted along with all of our family members!!! Things are crazy...we have not been able to keep our soups in the kettles this week! I guess that is a good thing. We have a few hires outside of the family and they are working out pretty well so far. Only one misfit but things happen. We have "What-What", a family friend who says "what" every time you say something to her. Interesting. "Crash" is a nephew who works like a champ and loves to greet and meet everyone! I am still working on some names for the others that have joined our forces...it takes time...They need to fit them just right. lol...

We were taken by surprise when our numbers continues to rise all week long. All week long we thought it was just luck but the doors keep opening and everyone keeps asking for more. Today was the day that I was able to finally catch up and get every soup made. Still have two to do in the morning but way easy ones!

We are still working on finding our rhythm to make things quick for our guests but still the best. I truly believe that quality makes a difference. I want everyone leaving so full and satisfied that they need to go home and nap....

"Big Brother" and I have put in mad hours this week along with our niece who just rocked out at the store keeping everything and everyone in check when she was on the line! Love it!! It will be upsetting when she starts classes on Thursday! Agh!

So stop in, yes our credits are still not functional but that is a working progress as well. But we have great food and lots of smiles to help you through your day. A little patience is all we ask for right now and remember we will make it worth the wait!!! Thanks for supporting us!!! See ya soon!

Open! Open! Open!

2011-01-03T22:40:00.002-05:00

So yes we are finally opened!!! Not our grand opening just a soft one to work out all o the bugs but open! Sunday was our first day and it was very busy and a little crazy...I would have to say that for everyone not really knowing what to do it wasn't that bad. "Drama" has been working her butt off baking and cooking soups and cleaning to get ready. She is awesome at multi-tasking! "Big Brother" is doing ok but I think he gets a little frazzled like everyone else. Yes, I think I have the answers but, I am the little sister so it takes awhile for everyone to hear or see me! If it doesn't happen soon i will through a tantrum and then they will all hear and see me! lol....Training is a little under par but we need to work out the best system we can think of so...hopefully by Friday we have it.

There are many soups to be made again..That is always good...I just need to be left in the kitchen to make that happen! I can't wait to see how things go when we advertise that we are open! Hopefully everyone gives us a chance to get it right a second time if it doesn't happen the first time. We are trying! I have some ideas of what needs to happen I just need to chat with "Big Brother". All of the family is working with us...My "Little Ones", my sister's daughter, my other sister's son...it is so much fun!!! I love hanging with them all the time! Now I just need nick names for them. Our new cook is great...she is way on top of her game...just working on the specifics now and we will be golden! Our cashier is nervous, she will get it, she just needs some time. "Big Brother", well what can I say, "WTF Chuck"!!!! I think that should be his new nick name.

We had friends stop in and help out and we appreciate all of the help...Thursday after getting out U/O we had a lot of people stop in and some jumped right in to help get started....Thanks!!!!
Thursday was so interesting...if everyone only new!!!!What a laugh now!!!

"Big Brother" is running around trying to do everything and he needs to slow done...and take a step back so he can see what is really needed....I just need to cook! So please, leave me in the kitchen!!!!!!! Seafood Gumbo should be done for lunch along with New England Clam Chowder and more Cream of Chicken and Mushroom. By dinner I should have Chicken Corn Chowder done too!!!

I miss my babies.....I liked being a stay at home mom.....running with the babies and all that jazz..What was I thinking? Who knows,the mornings are tough..but It will be worth it!!!!! Stop in and visit, its my new home!!!

Inspections are being SCHEDULED!!!!!

2010-12-19T00:44:00.002-05:00

We are pretty much done....we need three inspections then we can start to cook...Yes, we are opening later than we planned. Nothing really we could do, it was out of our control. The store looks great! Pictures are hung on the walls....equipment is in place...shirts, well, they are coming along...We are so excited...I guess we should be happy to start the new year off right, with our new business!!!

The families are gearing up for the opening...anticipating "Big Brother" and myself never being home...which is fine by us!!! A change of scenery is always good! I have been home too long!! I have cabin fever!! Everyone keep your fingers crossed that all goes well this week and hopefully the week after Christmas we can open our doors!!! Happy Holidays!!! See ya soon!

Any DayNow!!

2010-12-06T07:44:00.002-05:00

Things are just about there....Construction is so close to being complete. We HVAC inspection scheduled for Tuesday. Keep your fingers crossed that we pass that one with flying colors. After that is the final inspection with the township and then with the Department of Health. Our booths are in but the table bases did not come with the tables..I guess we are going to have to ask Harry Potter to cast a spell so they float or something! We need two more tables and three sets of chairs. Bathrooms are completely done , wait..except for the mirrors. Easy fix! All of the art work will go up this week. Scrubbing and cleaning will be my task all week long.

The coffee is still a major thorn in my side! I thought we had decided but I am not real happy with the salesman from the one company. "The Soup King" says I am a pain about salesmen but if he rubs me the wrong way...I really don't want to deal with him all the time.. I'm a genie in a bottle and need to be rubbed the right way man!!!! This decision needs to be made today so they equipment can be put in this week. All of the other equipment is in place and ready to go! The menu will be finalized today...that will go to print by Wednesday. Trying to line up all these ducks is very tiring! I just want to open the doors and sell soup already!

The holidays are approaching fast and we so want to be apart of that with everyone. We are working on some ideas for the grand opening week....face painting, a clown, give aways...a raffle for some cool stuff...Once those final decisions are made we will let everyone know what surprises we have!!! Have a great Monday and keep your eyes open for our open sign!!!

Not Today...

2010-11-29T08:32:00.002-05:00

Yes, today was supposed to be the opening day....unfortunately, not happening. We are waiting on other people to get things done, this is slowing us down. We are waiting for a phone call back from the township...this is slowing us down. These things are out of our control and are making me crazy. I am so over this whole construction thing!! I just want to cook, bake, and function. I really feel that we need to move forward quickly and there just seems to be a wall that we have to get past before that can happen...Oh my!!!

"Big Brother" and "The Soup King" worked over the weekend at the store...I decorated for Christmas with my "Little Ones". We finally put lights up outside...They might stay up forever or at least until it gets warm but that's fun and festive!

"The Boy" was not a happy camper all week long, his best friend was on vacation. We did not see him once his friend got back on Saturday. It was quiet around our house!

Today is cove base and other odds and ends to finish up. "The Soup King" himself will be at another job...."Big Brother", myself, and of course our father will be rockin' things out today!!! Hopefully by the end of this week we have a clue to our opening date!!!! Keep your fingers crossed!!!

Get to the Floor!

2010-11-16T00:06:00.003-05:00

We have ventured on to installing the floor! When I saw we, I mean everyone!! "Big Brother", "The Soup King" himself, "Survivor Woman" even got her hands dirty today. Yes, I was helping and of course so was my Daddy!! We made a lot of progress. We are half way through the kitchen area. 2400 square feet is a lot of tile to install and grout!! I think our target date for opening is going to be moved back to two weeks after Turkey day. We have to wait on work to be completed by a few other contractors before we can schedule inspections. Let's hope they move quickly!!!

Either way we are all very excited. A private party is being planned for December...Keep your eyes and ears peeled because if you want to come you have to find the secret word to get you in....It could be any where...On the blog...at the store...on Facebook or on the fan page....just a little something to keep you guessing!!! Keep your eyes open!!!

Oh the Colors!!!

2010-11-12T06:37:00.002-05:00

Yes, I was excited to paint but really, are we done yet? Dark colors are a challenge! One more coat of red on the walls I believe the paint will be complete except for any trim work going up and the bathroom doors....I will have to check with "The Soup King". The ceiling grid is in but not complete yet...Looks like the tile will be started on Monday at the latest. We are really moving along now.

It really looks great in the store. We have taken a few applications and already have one person to cook for us in the morning which is AWESOME!!!! Now we need to figure out the rest of the day. Oh! and that darn menu! If we don't finish that soon I might spit! That should be easy but really, its not. The soup portion is good to go but the sandwiches, so many to choose from is that good or bad? That is a task that needs to be knocked out of the park this weekend.

I think we have found our winner for coffee, Ellis. I actually tasted their 100% Colombian and it was not that bad. Yes it had lots of cream and sugar but I could get it down. I still have a hard time with the after taste that coffee leaves in general but with these early mornings, it might become my new best friend!!!!

The signs are in and up! They look great! I will upload pictures later today of all the progress on the facebook fan page that we have! Look it up and check it out!!

HVAC, tile, ceiling, bagel case, and cove base left to do and then we move the equipment in! Next Friday should bring the scheduling of more inspections!!! Keep your fingers crossed!

Paint and What else???

2010-11-10T06:48:00.002-05:00

The walls are covered! FRP is almost complete the paint has one coat on the majority of the walls. We are shakin' our tail feathers now. The concrete counters were done on Monday and are looking good. We need to stain, seal, and buff them and they will be complete.

We still need to make a decision about coffee. This is so hard since the three of us do not drink coffee at all! We need more taste-testers! This needs to be decided on so we can start the coffee station. Very challenging, who knew? Other than the coffee issue we are pretty set in our choices for foods, wait! Bread...gotta call the bread guy...we need fresh baked bread everyday! Its the only way! OK...off to make another list of things to do for today...Stop in check us out...things look good and are moving along!! Goal is the to open the Monday after "Turkey Day"!

Yeah Baby!!

2010-11-04T22:01:00.002-04:00

Another inspection gone well! Paint is on the way!!! I am so amped up to finally make some head-way with the store....It looks like we may be able to open the Monday after Thanksgiving...At least that is what I am aiming for...The floor is going to be the most time consuming project at this point in the build. "The Soup King" says we should move quickly as long as we have enough help.

We met with a guy about smoothies today. They are super yummy. Not too sure if "Big Brother" is sold on them or not but I am pushing for them....We have spent the last few days trying to finish our menu, what type of sandwiches, little things. The biggest issue is coffee. How do we pick a coffee when neither of us drink coffee???? That is the million dollar question for the week!

Another Inspection on its Way!!

2010-10-28T08:49:00.002-04:00

"Survivor Woman" celebrated her birthday yesterday.....Happy Happy Birthday!!!!! "Big Brother" was off from his day job and worked all day at the store with "The Soup King". We have just a few things left to get ready for the inspection on Friday morning! Once this inspection is complete we can finish the sheet rock and start on the paint and floors~We need to move...Our deadline is approaching quickly and I don't want to move it again.

We are going to start taking applications starting sometime next week. I am so excited I can't wait! My Daddy has been over working hard at the store as well....trying to help us get done. He wants me to get to work so I stop bugging him all the time!!! I will let you know how Friday goes....Be ready...its almost Soup Time!!!

Rocking Out The Store!!!

2010-10-22T19:51:00.002-04:00

We are moving along with a nice positive flow! The perimeter is rocked. The framing is just about complete. It actually looked like something now! We need to complete the rough plumbing and rough electrical work then we can get another inspection...We are getting close. I am so excited to paint and get the floor tile complete! We even have an area for a small sofa and coffee table! My favorite part!

"The Soup King" is moving fast....he has other construction work that is about to begin. Let's hope we can get everything done by our target date! I really want to open the second week in November with our slammin' grand opening starting on December 1st!

An old friend stopped in today to say hello. It was a nice surprise. "The Soup King" was happy to see his face today and hopes to see him again in the future! We are so excited to get our doors open...Keep your fingers crossed that everything keeps moving along smoothly!! I will keep you posted!

Permits are in!!!!!

2010-10-13T22:54:00.002-04:00

Permits are now hanging in the window. Just waiting for our first inspection so we can move forward! Once the underground plumbing is complete we can really make some progress on the store. "Big Brother" and "The Soup King" are eager to get done. WE have framing work and electrical to complete but I am confident that they will move accurately and swiftly! Signs are being done, door hangers are being printed up...we are flowing!

"Big Brother" has his youngest birthday party this weekend. We are making a skate park cake for him. This should be interesting! Where is my "Zen" when I need her!!!!! My oldest sister is heading her way this week, wish I could go to visit. Imagine, me, wishing to go back to Sarasota!!! Never thought those words would come out of my mouth! I do miss my friend more than you know....Anyway, lots going on...Senior soccer game for the boys Conwell Egan team, elections for student government at Shafer, church meeting....busy, busy, busy!!!!! I'd rather be making soup!!!! lol......I will let you know when we are painting and laying the tile!!! Should be sooner than later now!!!

Food, Food, and More Food!

2010-10-06T15:54:00.002-04:00

So the US Food Show was awesome at Lincoln Financial! "Big Brother" and I ate more than we ever should have today! I need a nap! We tasted all kinds of great products trying to decide what is best for all of our new guests.....Decisions...decisions! We have lots of appointments this week...advertising, bread guys, paper people, Boar's Head!!!

The permits are still lingering just out of reach for us but what else is new! I really thought that we would have this issue resolved already but government, on any scale is government....SLOW! "The Soup King" is addressing most issues with getting the construction done so I am still hoping to open in November. Shirts are being ordered...signs are being ordered...equipment too! Everything is moving....if we could only be moving product now I would be super happy!

All of the "Little Ones" are moving along with school and fail activities. Most are eager to help at the store so that should be a lot of fun! And yes, they all want to be the boss and at they all want mad cash! lol......

So far this is it for an update...When the permits come through...well let me just say the info will fly! Stay dry and in touch!

Stop! Wait! Permits Please.....

2010-09-17T12:44:00.004-04:00

Yes, we were moving right along....but I was left to file for permits and did not know that we needed a demo permit. Oops...I did it again! Why are there so many different things to file for just fixing something and making it nice? I just don't get that at all! So now we are waiting for everything to be issued so we can move along without any more bumps. The best part is that I have not a clue of what I am filling out so this has been a rockin' experience for me!!!!

We are ready to jump as soon as we can to finish and to get our doors open. There are so many people asking about our open date...We can only project a date at this point. I would love to be opened before November but we will have to wait and see.

I cannot wait to get back to work and back on track. The store will look amazing when we are done with the renovations. Two big screens and free WFI to entertain all who want to sit down and relax while eating and of course, Preston and Steve will be on throughout the morning!

And So It Begins!

2010-09-02T15:38:00.003-04:00

September 1st was here and gone along with a few walls! We finally have possession of our store and are ready to bang things out. We are awaiting our plans and permits so we can really make some changes. "Big Brother" and "The Soup King" worked hard on cleaning out trash and debris yesterday. Today was a low impact day.

Looks like we will be at Hulmeville Soccer next Saturday, the 11Th. Providing yummy stuff while everyone gets their photos done and plays a few games of soccer. Wraps, and two soups to pick from and of course there is always a little going back to the club from any profits made.

The next month should be a wild ride! Tomorrow we focus on menus and signs. It felt good to turn the existing signs around so the other business names are gone! Now, get our name up there and let people know what to expect!!!!! Check out our facebook and our new fan page!

Are we there yet?

2010-08-24T11:33:00.002-04:00

Is September 1st here yet or what!!!?!?!?! I just want to get started on construction want things to move along. The fundraiser that "Big Brother" attend was huge! Tons of people and tons of prizes. Thanks to all who went out and showed support for this beautiful young girl! The four gallons of chili that he took with him to donate was gone in just about one hour! That is amazing! Love to hear when people are enjoying the food...

I think that we will be taking a break from cooking once construction begins. We are so excited to create a great place for people to come in, relax, and enjoy a great meal. The environment will be very warm and friendly...almost like being at home except you won't have to cook and still you get a homemade meal! Can't beat that at all!

"The Soup King" himself is eager for us to get started so I am out of his hair....I am just kind of floating around right now, yes driving him crazy. "Drama" wants to get to work too. She likes to run a tight ship so we can't wait to set her up with her front end responsibilities!

All are prepping for the beginning of the school year so be safe and shop well for all those school supplies......Will let you know when we start banging walls out!! Lol....

September 1st.....Amen...I say Amen!!!

2010-08-17T11:12:00.001-04:00

Finally, September 1st is our new date for taking possession of our site. We are banking on 4, max 6 weeks for construction. Yes..we are gutting both stores! One is going all the way down to the block...it is pretty bad in there! We will have pictures to show our now and then scenario! So exciting. We met with the engineers on Saturday so the plans should be done shortly, permits will be applied for and then we can move on. "Big Brother" and I are going for our test on the 26th....we are finally in a groove. Let's hope it stays that way!

We are making Chili for a fundraiser this weekend. The fundraiser is for a co-worker's daughter of "Big Brother". She is a 26 year old woman who was diagnosed with Leukemia, the worst stage possible. The Beef and Beer will be held at St. Dominic's in Northeast Philadelphia on Frankford Avenue. Tickets are $25.00 each and it is on August 21st from 7pm to 11pm. This includes all the beer you can drink and of course yummy food. The proceeds are going to help pay for her medical bills. Please do what you can...maybe we will see you there!

We always try to help where and when we can! That is very important to us......We are eager to give back to our community!!! We are really excited to introduce everyone to our great taste!! I have published our website finally. Yes it is still under construction but at least it is out there for people to check out. Building a website on your when you have zero experience is a bit trying!!! So when you view it just remember that it is a working progress! Here is the address for you to check it out! www.wix.com/soupking1/bagelocity--soup-king

Well...I will let you know how things are moving along in a few days! Hope to see some of you on Saturday!

And The beat Keeps Runnin'.....

2010-07-08T00:07:00.000-04:00

You think they would just move....not be difficult or anything, just move. Still waiting...sounds like they are dragging this out til September 1st. Thanks to our great court system they should be able to appeal any ruling any way. Sounds like fun, ugh? Not! Any way, soups are moving along, still being made...keeping your attention. The Seafood Gumbo came out very good, as usual.

Our Facebook page is growing which is fun. We are working on funky cakes, you know, "Cake Boss" cakes. Of course we need lots of practice but I have to say that the girls and I are not doing such a bad job with no experience! And its fun!

"The Boy" and "Drama" are looking into modeling and all that fun stuff. "The Soup King" will be traveling to Manhattan with them in the next day or so...should prove to be interesting! I think he should take all of them!

So keep your eyes open for us...look for us on facebook...of course under SoupKing!!! Check out the family and all of our fun! Chat soon!

Just move on ALREADY!

2010-07-02T04:38:00.000-04:00

Yes...we are still waiting to start construction. The current tenant has now taken it to the next level of dragging his move through the court system. Just move on already. Why can't people just let go when its time? We really don't want to look at other locations again...I want to be close to home and in our own neighborhood. "Big Brother" met with a friend about the plans so at least we have that ball in motion. "The Soup King" thinks we should explore our options....This is just crazy!

We got back into the swing of things a little bit this week with some Potato and Ham and Cream of Chicken and Mushroom soup. The broth came out beautifully! I just want to get back to work and move forward. The girls and I have been working on cakes with funky icings and designs. That's been a lot of fun. We are whipping up something this weekend for Aunt June's birthday.....can't wait to see what we produce this time!

Anyway, it looks as though we may not open til October or so if we can't get this guy to just move on.....Keep your ears to the ground and your eyes open for our sign...Hopefully the fates will have something a little kinder written in the stars for us!

This Should Just Be Easy....

2010-06-10T18:02:00.000-04:00

So yes the lease is signed. We were supposed to take possession of the two stores on June 1st. The current tenant has yet to move out. Of course there is drama between "Big Brother" and "The Soup King" over how to design the store. I think that they should both keep their ideas to themselves and just listen to me for once.LOL...Anyway, we are off to a slow and bumpy start but like all great rides, what a way to start!

"The Little Ones" are anxious to get mom back to work....yes I cannot wait...I am going stir crazy at home. We have a new addition to our home, his name is "Thor"....yes he will be very big! So cute, love the puppy.

Stay tuned for the next update. Let's hope that by next week are plans are done and permits are applied for so we can begin construction....Say a little prayer as well we have a few friends in great need so when you talk to your "Greater Power" ask him to keep our little friend and our old friend in his good graces......chat soon!

Lease is Signed!!!!

2010-05-05T11:53:00.001-04:00

Ok.....our new location is 5811 Bensalem Blvd, Bensalem PA 19020.....We finally got the lease signed and take possession of the store on June 1st...Let the hammers swing!!! We are eager to get started..."The Soup King" is working on the permits and plans while "Big Brother" and I finalize our menu...."The Little Ones" can't wait for me to get back to work......I am so bored that I am driving them crazy. "Survivor Woman" got a little nervous there for a second but is feeling all warm and fuzzy again...

The is house under way right now so hopefully we move back in before we start the store...doing both at the same time would be interesting.

We cranked out some awesome Chili this morning for Redhouse Bagels...and of course some for ourselves....Let me know if you are interested in a taste.

We are looking to have a soft opening mid to late August with our big "Grand" opening the weekend after Labor Day. I am still getting a cake from "cake Boss" even though "Big Brother" thinks I am silly.....We have the best love hate relationship.

It's fun to hear everyone warn about working with family.....that maybe true with some but we have a very different dynamic then most. We can yell at each other in one breath and with the next joke around. So...all with your advice and warinngs...we appreciate your input but....We got this!!!! No problems...no worries.....Be ready for us though...we are coming by storm!!!!

Moving forward....

2010-04-12T20:57:00.001-04:00

"The Soup King" is currently working on a floor plan for the new store....."Big Brother" and I are eager to get started. It's been a while since my last update. We have been enjoying all of the "Little Ones" and the warm weather. It looks like Bensalem will be our new home for the store. Yes we like it because it is right around the corner from both of us. Easy to run home easy to run back....makes life doable.

"Big Brother" decided that we should go look at equipment last Friday. We traveled two hours away and then they did not have what we needed...he deserved a beating for waking me up early when no one had school...I am not a morning person...I told him we should just send a list over for pricing and he said oh no...lets go in person, put a face to a name...That's all well and good at noon but not 9am....not for me any way. It was fun after I woke up so I guess it was worth it...

We may have a meeting at the end of the week. We should receive a lease at that point. Once it is signed.....I will let everyone know where our exact new home will be!!!! Til then.....live large!

Another site..will it be the One?

2010-03-04T22:47:00.000-05:00

"Big Brother" and I spent all of today out searching high and low for a location. We may have found it right in our own back yard. Once "The Soup King" comes back we will have the final answer if we can move forward with this new site. All I can say is that it is close to home....in our neighborhood...people will know us. It could be the start we need. The one we have been searching for!

We have a shower to take care of this weekend so I am gearing up for cooking and prepping. Tea sandwiches and mini quiche offer a very elegant touch to the event, in my opinion anyway. "The Little Ones" are around to help so that is a bonus for me!

I am getting ready to head south to bring back "The Soup King". I am so excited! "The Boy" is not very happy about it but it is for the best right now...I have a plan. In five years we should be headed to Northern California, yes another new place! Anything is possible at this point...besides, who doesn't love do-overs? Try something new in a new place...I learned over the last year or so that it doesn't kill you, and it doesn't break you, its exciting and helps you to grow!

Ok...pay attention for the day to day update on our location...I'm telling ya, its coming and its coming fast!!!! Soon there will be bagels and soup to fill all the appetites we meet!!!

"The Soup King" returned and is off again!

2010-02-28T20:48:00.000-05:00

"The Soup King" was back for a dance which was canceled by the non-existant weather. Hopefully the rescheduled date will be when he is back for good. Yes, he is coming back this month. He will continue to bounce from here to Sarasota but at least I will get more time with him now. "The Little Ones" all enjoyed spending time with their daddy so at least the snow days were beneficial that way.

"Big Brother" is anxiuos to get into a location, as am I....I just don't want to create any repeat issues. I am ready for everyone to know us and what we have...it just needs to be right on the money! All of the legal mumbo jumbo is making me crazy with signing a lease....there is always a loop hole for the bigger party to benefit from....its very frustrating....I am sure within the next two weeks we may have a location to release to everyone and an estimated date for an opening.......in the mean time I am getting ready to venture back to the Sunshine state to collect the rest of my family! And of course visit my "ZEN"!!!!!!

What is the Deal?

2010-02-21T19:18:00.000-05:00

So "Big Brother" is still working on a location....staying in our own neighborhood would be great but may not necessarily be right. I keep looking on line, as I drive around...places that might be good are high in rent. I keep wondering how it is possible for the economy to turn around when the banks won't budge....I am sure that if we are patient I am sure that something will show up when its the right time.

"The Soup King" is still in Florida with "The Boy"....he will be in for the weekend. "Little Miss Responsible" has a father daughter dance on Friday. "The Little Ones" are very excited and can't wait for him to get here!! The permanent move back for him is scheduled for the end of March. "The Soup King" is not happy about it at all. I feel bad because I am so attached to my family. I keep thinking that when the "Little Ones" are grown a move like that will be easier. Siesta Key is beautiful but there was something missing for me....Maybe I need to figure out what I want to be when I grow up.

"Big Brother" and I are working on getting our name out and about even without a shop..We have a baby shower to take care of next month which is fun. Thanks to my "Zen" we have a hit for small finger foods, mini quiche....I miss her very much. The new baby should be here soon so maybe I will get to go back and visit and hold her new bundle of joy!!!! Anyway..for now I need to focus. Get a game plan together. This whole adventure would have been more entertaining if someone followed us around with a camera filming all of the drama!! Oh well it will make a great book some day.

Well stay posted..we are still working on a home for us..when we find one...you won;t be able to miss us!!!!!

Time To Fire It Up!!!! We May Have Found a Home...

2010-02-13T00:24:00.000-05:00

"Big Brother" is in the process of working on a lease for a location for us.."Survivor Woman" is happy and eager for us to get out of her kitchen. "The Soup King" is on board but with a bit of hesitation, I guess it is time to show him what we got! "The Little Ones" are all on house arrest except for "Drama","Frik and Frak" report cards came home last week....Very high standards to be met at our house...Things will work out though, they will all be fine. I am taking a few classes right now to stay busy but that busy thing should change quickly...

Bagels and soups....now I need to focus on bread. Figuring out the nitch to make a good bread is my agenda this weekend. The room is clean so off to the kitchen to prep and per-fect!!!

The crazy snow has the "Little Ones" bouncing with excitment....snowmen and hot chocolate have been the theme all week! Just think, when we are open next winter...it probably won't even snow! That would be irony! lol! Stay tuned for the new location of Bagelocity and The Soup King Cafe.....happy to bring you all of our yummy treats!

GUMBO!GUMBO!GUMBO!

2010-01-31T15:16:00.000-05:00

Yes, we made Seafood Gumbo this week....very spicy Seafood Gumbo the way it is supposed to be!!! Great hot Italian Sausage from Gerome's Sausage Company in Levittown....lots of crab claw meat and shrimp....yum! Let us know if you want some for the big game next week.

Location status....still working...We might be a little closer then we were last week but it is still a working progress. We are going to try to make some friends with Preston and Steve!!! "Big Brother" loves their show and thinks we might have an in since we have great food!!!! So we will see......

Well we are still working it as best we can for now but we are on the brink of blowing up.....the way we want it to be. So I will keep you informed as to the next step for us....enjoy! Yes....the drama will be kicking in as well once construction begins, no doubt about it.

Still searching but still cooking!

2010-01-19T20:03:00.001-05:00

We are still working on our location. We need a prime spot but within reason. We would like to be successful not end up in the poor house...Needless to say rent is a working progress. Everyone has a golden egg!

"Big Brother" moved over five gallons of Chili in a day.....Amazing! We will be knocking out a few soups this week so at least I have something to keep me busy!

"Frick" will be celebrating a birthday on Friday and I agreed to make an Optimus Prime cake.....Where is my "Zen" when I need her??? We will be having a family gathering on Sunday. Of course "The Soup King and The Boy" won't be here and that is upsetting but it should be nice despite that small heartache!

I am already thinking about an opening celebration for our store....we want a cake from The Cake Boss....How much fun would that be with our two logos and fun stuff like that all over it!!! Lot's of fun ideas going on....can't wait to get back to work. In the mean time I have been thinking about taking a class or two but I guess I should make that choice soon since classes start this week.....I just need to get back to work and soon...not just a few soups here and there, I mean hard core rock out three or four batches at five gallons a clip.....Being idle is making me crazy!!!!

Well, stay tuned....maybe we can have some good news on the site search before you know it!!!! In the meantime, Redhouse Bagel's is selling our Sweet Chili this week so stop in and try a bite!!!! Oh Yeah, their wraps are great!!!!

Meeting Today......

2010-01-14T14:05:00.000-05:00

Our meeting is about to take place...Let's hope we only need one to get what everyone needs to get this site! Keep your fingers crossed.

As for all of you who are missing your yummy soups....I am sorry that I moved away. I just needed to be where I have the highest level of comfort..my home town. Maybe in a few years we will be back in Sarasota with a new location. Anything is possible. Besides, "Big Brother" and I have big plans for our new ideas!!! Chat with you soon!

We are working it!!!!

2010-01-11T14:05:00.000-05:00

"Big Brother" and I knocked out five gallons of veggie broth, New England Clam Chowder, Spicy South Western Black Bean and Veggie soup too. Today was our first order of soup for whole sale. We have a few orders lined up already. Needless to say we are very excited. Yes, I am still trying to get "The Soup King" to move back from the sunshine state but he is not having it.

We are still waiting on info about our site.....hopefully by the end of the week we are good to go!!!!! Well just a little update for everyone. Oh and "Big Brother's" wife is going to be called "Survivor Woman". She beat Breast Cancer three years ago and remains cancer free to date! Yeah Mama! If she can survive that and this fun ride she can survive anything we throw at her!

Get to Know Us....

2010-01-10T01:00:00.000-05:00

"Big Brother" was out at a Poker Fundraiser for Ramblers in Bucks County tonight. He took "The Soup King's" famous Sweet Chili to help people to get to know us and our product and of course to help support their efforts of raising money for their organization. It was a great success. Everyone loved the chili and loved how it is so different from the everyday chili you can get just about anywhere. It was a last minute decision to do chili. We were going to take about 2 gallons of Potato and Ham and I said that it was a shame we didn't have chili made because that goes great with cards and men and of course drinks! "Big Brother" said, well....make it let's run with it...so we did. It was a busy Saturday but of course fun.

So...let's tell you a little bit about my "Big Brother". He is a big guy who likes to kick back and enjoy his time. All of his time. Even time spent working. (this will be great for our work environment!) He is a family man, three boys, and a great wife with a lot of patience. Sometimes my "Big Brother" likes to have of a little too much fun and she always smiles and goes with it! He is a lot like "The Soup King" in that way. Fun is key. The boys are fun, 17, 9, and 5. They fit right into the mix with our "Little Ones". I am working on some nick names for those guys. We will keep you posted on that topic. My "Big Brother" is 6 years older than me and is the only boy in our family. Yes, my older sisters sometimes think that my mom favored him...She just liked us more than each other at different times but loved us all! We have had a love/hate relationship our whole lives, he would smack me across the back of the head when he walked by, I would scream even if he didn't hit me to get him in trouble. Over all we can yell at each, tell each other how much we hate the other, then move on like nothing ever happened. It makes it fun. We work well together.

Tomorrow brings another day of cooking. We are getting samples together for our tentative new landlord. We are looking to win him over through his belly! You know the old saying, the way to a man is through his stomach....I agree and we have the food to make it happen! We are thinking of Broccoli and Cheese, South Western Black Bean, Tomato Basil....of course our Sweet Chili will make an appearance. We have already given up the Potato and Ham, Chicken Noodle, and Cream of Chicken and Mushroom. He will be so stuffed on Monday!! We can't wait!

Needless to say...we are pushing forward with a great amount of thrust to hook people on our product..Once you taste what we have, you will want to always come back! Stay tuned for the next update.....maybe "Drama" will be out and about helping to sell!

Soon To Be.....Just Wait and See.....

2010-01-07T21:06:00.000-05:00

Well the first round of negotiations have been set into motion for our new location. Bagelocity and The Soup King will be up and running very soon. "It's all about the B and S.....the bagels and soup!" We are very excited about the new menu and can't wait to get our products out to everyone! "The Soup King" is back in the Sunshine State for now but will hopefully be joining us here in our home town soon. "The Little Ones" have all adjusted to another new school without skipping a beat! I just need to keep busy...That really isn't hard. We are already getting orders for catering and whole sale of our soups. This is always a good thing!

"Party Boy" seems very interested in venturing to a new state for work which is very exciting for us. "The Boy" is still in the Sunshine state too. Finishing 8th grade was important for him. I am hoping to have him back sooner than later too. The girls are just eager to get back into their own house so May cannot come fast enough!!!!

Well, "Big Brother" is very excited to get started with work. He is definately networking to get the word out that we are getting ready to launch something new and different to the area!

Stay posted....hopefully by next week we can reveal our new location!

Moving....Relocating....

2009-12-16T16:54:00.001-05:00

Yes, we have closed our doors for now. "The Soup King" couldn't take me being sad anymore. He took me home! I am very happy to be back in PA...yes it is way cold compared to Florida right now. Perfect for soup! My big brother and I are still working on a location for our Bagelocity and Soup King idea. We are very close to signing a lease at a great spot! We have already started to push soups for whole sale in the area which is keeping me busy in the mean time.

We will be featuring Redhouse Bagels at our location. Breakfast sandwiches, omelets, we may even venture into pancakes and waffles. We will continue with our lunch sandwiches, salads, and of course our great home made soups. Redhouse Bagels has Tomato Basil today and tomorrow. Friday they will have Broccoli and Cheese. We will hopefully be in the Eddington House (E-House) by next week. Monday, look for Potato and Ham!!! I know the family can't wait for that one!!!!!

"The Soup King" is eager to get started up here. He will be bouncing back and forth between Pennsylvania and Florida for a while. It may be a challenge at first but we will make it work! I really don't like to be away from my man. I do miss my "Zen". I will get to see her and the family for New Years so that is exciting!!!!!

Keep your eyes and ears posted to see what new things we have going on! Things are changing everyday! Remember...it's BS! All about the Bagels and Soup!

Sorry to say...

2009-12-07T22:27:00.000-05:00

"The Soup King" is sorry to say that we are moving to another location. Our store lacked many things to help everyone enjoy their visit. We thank all who stopped in and enjoyed our soups! We have not decided where the new store will be but we are working on that issue now. We plan to be around again soon so please remember us...we won't forget all of you! It has been a great year, full of fun, drama, and learning curves.

Thank you so very much for the smiles and for the suggestions...we take/took everything to heart and really try/tried to utilize any and all information to help us improve!!! Again.....keep your eyes open for on the horizon will be the birth of a new bigger and better "Soup King"!!!!

Happy Turkey Day!

2009-11-26T17:39:00.000-05:00

Today is a family day. I hope everyone is enjoying the good things in life and giving thanks together! We are waiting for the bird to grace the table right now. Tomorrow we will have Winter Squash again. I have been a little distracted with my daddy here and my "Little Miss Responsible". Dad has been helping out at the store to try and keep busy. He gets bored very easily.

The store has been steady....I am faaced witht the dilema of returning to PA or staying here in Sarasota. This has been the challenge from the start. I love "The Soup King" with my heart and soul but in the same breath I am a family girl. I miss my siblings....They may not miss me so much but I feel a little empty without them around me. The "Little Ones" would have to change schools again and moving back, lots of work. Then I have "My Zen" and her family which has become a challenge for me to part with too. So many decisions, what to do?

In the mean time we keep cranking out soups!!! Potato and Ham, just can't keep it in stock! Just cooking like crazy....always a good thing!!!!

"The Soup King", himself just celebrated his birthday. It was a small celebration but everyone who cares either called or was present...I even made a home made strawberry cake with home made strawberry icing! Not so pretty but very rich and tastey! It was a winner, for that moment.

Well, the turkey is coming!!! I am ready to eat and so are "The Little Ones"!!! Enjoy!!!

Up Coming Events....

2009-11-17T15:44:00.000-05:00

We are donating Vegetarian Chili to Phillippi Shores Elementary for their festival on Friday. It is from 4:30 to 7:30. Sounds like lots of fun, a dunk tank, games, and other fun activities for the kids to participate in...We will all be there so stop by!

Thursday "Little Miss Responsible" and my Daddy return....they are here for two weeks. Very excited to see my "Snot Girl"!!!!!! Hopefully we can squeeze in a trip to Disney before she ventures back to PA.

Our refrigerator is supposed to finally be repaired today!!! Maybe then I will have enough space to make the Winter Squash. It has been busy and fast moving in the store. "Party Boy" and "Box Boy" got slammed yesterday after I left for the day. I guess they needed to see what it will be like as we move into cooler months. "Party Boy" will be working on his future tomorrow so he won't be in until Thursday. "Muscle Guy" has been rocking out little tasks at night like cleaning the office so it looks great, and you can actually walk around in it too!!!! Who knew they all had so much energy! I love it!!! Thanks for the help gents!

We all have fun for the most part at the store. The last two days have been high speed for me since "Drama" has been home sick from school. hopefully she goes back tomorrow since we will be down a man. Should be fun! "School Girl" will be in but not until after 2.

So my "big Brother" and I are working on some ideas for stores up north. Where it is cold and soup should fly out the door 10 months out of the year!!! Not that this isn't great but I miss the family! Hopefully things will roll smoothly....I can't wait to see what the next six months bring about!

My "Zen"(the neighbor) is having a baby in April and we are all so excited. She always makes you feel good and she is so cute with her tiny little belly!!! I go to her house everyday just to feel good and to relax. Her whole family is just so cool and calm! I love them...If I do go back to PA they will be missed by me more than I can say! "The Soup King" will be missed too since he will remain in the sunshine state if I go back....Everything is just crazy but I that keeps it interesting! Check back to see how the visit is going with the family!!!!

Anniversary????

2009-11-11T20:10:00.000-05:00

So one year here and gone..."The Soup King" is working on so many things that plans went out the window....."Box Boy" has been working very hard over the last week or so, we are all impressed. "Party Boy" has been tired lately, staying up so late!!! He never seems to listen. "Muscle Guy" has been holding down the fort by keeping things in check, nice and neat. We cranked out a crazy amount of soups over the last two days!!! Potato and Ham, Chicken Noodle,New England Clam Chowder,Vegetable, Chili, South Western Black Bean, and even Vegetable Broth!!!!! It has been fun stuff! Tomorrow brings a fresh batch of Split Pea and Chicken Broth and my special Winter Squash.

The store is picking up at a slow pace but picking up.....so that is a good thing. We are working on our menu once again and checking out our prices to see if we can make things a little lighter for all. "The Soup King" is working very hard to make things off the hook so I stay in Florida instead of returning to PA!!! I am trying to convinve the "King" that I belong in PA....that is a hard task. We will have to wait and see what the next few months will bring. I am trying to take The Soup King name up north...where it is cold...the way I like it. I think it would be fun to have one here and one there, we can work toward the middle of the east coast to meet with stores some where in Virginia...we can dream!

Let's Get Busy.....

2009-11-03T00:34:00.000-05:00

The store is picking up gradually..we are almost at our one year anniversary and I need to get the"Soup King" to plan something fun and exciting. But what? We have great specials this week....Classic Beef Stew, French Onion Soup.....Mac-N-Cheese, no its not a soup...just home made Mac-N-Cheese. Very yummy.

We are looking into getting a spot at The Farmer's Market downtown on Main Street. Hopefully, "The Soup King" will get up early and do what he needs to do along with all of his other work. "Muscle Guy" has been working well lately, "Party Boy", well he does well as long as we remind him to stay on track. We have a delivery guy, "Box Boy" because he can make crazy music with his mouth....Very nice and easy to work with. "School Girl", the weekend girl will be joining us during the week now since we will be closed on Sundays. Everyone likes her. Hopefully one or two of our friends will help out with our soon to be early Saturdays......Let's wait and see!

Any way, back to the main event, soups. We have Classic Beef Stew, which I had today and is very yummy....excellent with lots of bread. I also decided that French Onion would be a good one for this week. Everyone seemed to love it last year so, let's welcome it back!!!! Well, gives us a call or stop in for something warm and filling as the weather slowly cools down,(which I love by the way).

The Menu

2009-10-28T19:01:00.000-04:00

So we talk about funny things, silly things, and things that just seem to be going so It hought maybe I should talk about the menu thing....let you know what we have to offer....why it is really worth it to stop in and grab a bite to eat!

Let's start with our homemade soups.....on any given day we have
Potato and Ham
South Western Black Bean
Chicken Noodle
Vegetable
Tomato Basil
Split Pea with Ham (very thick)
Broccoli and Cheese
Seafood Gumbo
Sweet Chili
Cream of Chicken and Mushroom
New England Clam Chowder
Specials always change....right now we have
Homemade Mac-N-Cheese
Cold Strawberry Soup
Butternut Squash Soup

We Have great sandwiches...cold or hot pressed...
Roast Beef
Turkey Breast
Ham
BBQ Chicken
Boar's Head Ever Roast Chicken Breast
Grilled Cheese
Tuna

Our Specialty Sandwiches..
Caprese
Italian Sub with Boar's Head Meats

We have Salads of course...
Garden and Caesar
Mandarin
Chef
any with Grilled Chicken....

Yummy sweets too and chips to go along with any meal...of course we have special sweets at different times of the year.

Come on....stop in and try something yummy..call ahead to see what our specials are 941-365-7687

Thank You to My Zen!!!!

2009-10-20T22:30:00.000-04:00

My neighbor who is my "Zen", came to help me with everything in the store today. With everything she has going on in her life she still found time to help me!!!! I just love her so much......She is one reason that it would be hard to go back to PA.
We made all kinds of soups and a great big batch of broth today. Tomorrow I will be knocking out Cream of Chicken and Mushroom and Chicken Noodle again...

"Party Boy" has brought us a delivery guy....He starts tomorrow so we should be really good with getting orders out. we got to meet "Party Boy's" father tonight. he was very nice and hopefully is very proud of his son. He does a great job for us!
"Muscle Guy" was out today with a family emergency so we hope everything is getting better for him....."The Soup King" was about again today working on store number 2 and ideas to grow and things to make better. Can't wait to see what's ahead!

We are not going to open on Sundays!! I have finally convinced "The Soup King" that we absolutely need at least one family day! Besides, he doesn't like to get up early and I have church things on Sunday mornings!!! So check us out Monday through Saturday! We have lots going on...."Party Boy" may dance for you....

The Cold Has Arrived!

2009-10-19T21:53:00.000-04:00

So lunch was very busy today. So they say, I took the day to regroup. Rice pudding for the store was part of that for me today. "The Soup King" ran around like crazy today working all areas of his life. Tomorrow brings a hectic day for me....restocking the store and cooking lots of soups and of course chili.

I am working on getting Winter squash out again at some point this week. I will keep you posted. More Boar's Head meats will be in the store tomorrow!!! Roast Beef, Ever Roast Chicken Breast(again) and Honey Maple Glazed Ham, my family favorite!

Hopefully we will be able to catch up for tomorrow....of course it gets cold and wow look at all the people!!!! Be patient, please remember that this is all new to me!!! I will do my best to knock out what we need tomorrow! Stop in and see...it might be a good show!

Weekend....What? Where?

2009-10-16T22:42:00.000-04:00

So today was a busy day...lots of deliveries for now. "Muscle Guy" was not a happy camper but he took care of business anyway. "The Soup King" was out and about as well. "Party Boy" was shakin' things up in house with his dancing and singing again. We enjoyed Hairspray today....Of course Empire Records is still my favorite but we have to change things up a bit.

We made Beef Barley and it moved very quickly today. In fact all of the soups moved quickly. I guess the rain clouds worked in our favor today. Tomorrow brings more cooking....I think maybe three or four soups. I think I just want to stay in bed though. Maybe "The King" himself will have to rock it out on his own for this weekend. I need to catch up around the house.

"The Little Ones" are all hanging out...doing what they do...So Halloween is creeping up on us and so is my concert! My "Zen"(the neighbor) and I are going to see Boys II Men!! We can't wait...we need to shop for some bling so we can sing and dance like we were young and fun again!!!! We both even know all of the words to pretty much all of the songs.....It should be a blast! I will give you all the news on that after the show!

What Next?

2009-10-13T23:16:00.000-04:00

So "Party Boy" is working out well and he is very entertaining to boot! He gets the customers to dance and he being at the store. Ah....to be young and full of life! So he seems to like the job so far but it's only week two and its gradually getting busy again. I can't wait to see how he handles November!!!! The Soup King" was in and out today...he needs to fix the silly internet issue that we are having before I go crazy! It works, it doesn't work, it works.....very bothersome! "Muscle Guy" was only if a few hours today, things to do, people to see......I sent "Party Boy" home early and stayed today because it was steady but slow. Dinner had a fun little rush. Tomorrow will be a lite day for me....

We have a yummy Peppercorn Beef and Potato that "The Soup King" himself whipped up on the fly this past week when he was in. We also have our great Texas Chili back! We have homemade Mac-N-Cheese for the kids....no its not a soup...just an old fashion Mac-N-Cheese. Very good.....very cheesey!

Oh!! the best thing yet at The Soup King...MOVIES!!!! I get to play all of the favorites all day long!! I love it...It only took "The Soup King" 10 months to make it happen for me! He does what you ask....just figure on a long wait time. It's all good though. We had Empire Records on today and Uptown Girl, and RV...funny flicks. I can't wait to see what we watch tomorrow. Maybe Hairspray, musicals....Musical Wednesday...Who's ready to play??

We Have Found a Name!!! (and our MENU!)

2009-10-08T23:55:00.000-04:00

The new guy has officially been given his nickname today. "Party Boy" will entertain all who venture in....he listens to a wide variety of music and is always happy and looking to have fun. The best part about it is that he does his work at the same time! Love it!!! The new girl....I am still working on a name for her...I have to work with her a little more and then maybe it will come to me.

We have Chili again!!!! Yeah!!!! So wait....how about I list every soup.... ok her we go...
Potato and Ham
Split Pea and Ham
Cream of Chicken and Mushroom
Broccoli and Cheese
New England Clam Chowder
South Western Black Bean
Vegetable
Chicken Noodle
Sweet Chili
Tomato Basil
Seafood Gumbo
and again Strawberry Soup this week...a cold yummy treat!
Don't forget that we have sandwiches and salads too.....come on you know you want to try some of our yummy items!!

I made a Cheddar Potato for a special too but I didn't find it to be a hit. I need to find something fun and yummy for all. We do have Otis Spunkmeyer (again...its late can't spell) Double Chocolate Chip cookies this month with pink chips to help support Breast CancerResearch...2 for $1.00 can't beat it and they are awesome....stop and and take a bite!!!

"The Soup King" is returning from his business else where tomorrow. I am so tired I just want an easy day.....The Boar's Head people are coming in the morning with samples and fun stuff to look at....i am so excited!!!!

Don't forget that we are open on the weekends so stop in and visit.....we are always around. We have some info on fun things going on in the area too.. The Sarasota Zombie Pub Crawl is next weekend.....There is a cool band called Swamp Donkie playing some gigs in the area...stop in and get the info for some fun!! and some soup while you are on the run.......

What a week....

2009-10-07T22:33:00.000-04:00

So where to begin with the events of the week. We have Strawberry Soup!!! It's great for this hot weather! I met with the guys from Boar's Head....yeah..we will be switching to their lunch meat as soon as we can! Honey Maple Glazed ham! My Favorite!!!!! So excited about that one! We have two new team members. I am still working on nicknames for them...I guess another day or two of working with them and I should have it figured out.

"Muscle Guy" was off to play....Hope he had fun at Universal Studios!!! That's OK...I am going to Disney with the "Little Ones" one day next week..as long as it cools down a bit. "Frack" helped with the dishes tonight. "Frick" helped with the trash and "The Boy" helped out in between AIM on the computer with the ladies....He forgets that until he moves out I should be the #1 lady for him. Doesn't he realize I can make his life miserable. That is definitely one of the perks to parenthood!

I have another basket to make for another fundraiser. This one is for a Christian school...little calmer than the last one, but still fun. I also have a "Right to Life" news flash to share but the info is downstairs so ...tomorrow will have to work.

"The Soup King" is in PA, where I love to be....working and visiting "Little Miss Responsible". Hope they are having fun. My father will be flying to Sarasota with her in November...Can't wait!

We are coming up on our one year anniversary and I am hoping to plan something fun. We will have to see what the man is looking to do. I know that next week we will start our "Bottomless Bowl" of soup for $8.99. I believe that was the final verdict from the man on the throne but who knows these days!!!!! Check me back soon....Hey we have a myspace and facebook now too so look us up!

Sad Departure

2009-10-02T09:11:00.000-04:00

Today I have to fly back to Florida and to the store. Everything worked out for my big sister. She is on a path to recovery. I really do not want to leave. Every time I come home it gets harder to leave. I guess because my "Little Miss Responsible" is here it hurts even more.....

"Muscle Guy" hired a new girl while I was gone to help prep for the "in-season". I hear the weather is starting to cool down so I guess that is good. The weather in Pa is great! I love the fall. The leaves are all changing colors, the air is cool but refreshing. I just love sweatshirt weather! "The Soup King" himself will be out of town next week. I think we are playing tag! The specials will start to kick around again next week. I have to get the guys ready to do that too so I can get my PA store up and running! My target date is mid-July at the latest to at least find a location. I would like to be open by Labor Day!!!!!

I am off to pack and shower so I can head to the airport. Yes, flying for some reason has turned into an all day event.....Fun stuff...see you soon!

Philadelphia...dreamin'

2009-09-25T12:36:00.000-04:00

I am back in my hometown again!!! Happy Happy Joy Joy!!The weather is beautiful. Warm but a nice breeze and no humidity!!! It feels so good to be home...So, "Muscle Guy" and "One Way" will be caring for the store while I am away. Hopefully they will fight nice and not make too much of a mess.

We are checking on the price of strawberries. If they are reasonable we will have cold Strawberry Soup next week. I also believe that a "Beef" broth will be made and utilized in some surprises next week too!

"Little Miss Responsible" is still at school but I can't wait to see her! Of course I miss the rest of my "Little Ones" already.......Hopefully this bouncing thing will be over come this summer!

Well, I need to check on my big sister who is still in the hospital but hopefully coming home today! I will keep you posted on what's next!

Fun in the Kitchen

2009-09-22T23:33:00.000-04:00

We rocked out four soups today. Our specials this week are Cold Cucumber Soup topped with green onions, almonds, and tomatoes, and Winter Squash Soup which has a nice touch of nutmeg. We of course made Chicken Noodle Soup and Broccoli and Cheese. Tomorrow we make a fresh batch of Chili! Yummy-Yummy!

"My Zen" will be in on Thursday to decorate our windows for Halloween....I can't wait. She is awesome..."Muscle Guy" was out with the sniffles today. "One Way" worked hard all day with me. "The Soup King" is busy with construction so we are working hard to balance everything.

We made this awsesome basket for the Sarasota Zombie Pub Crawl to raffle off at there crawl on October 17th. It was full of fun stuff....movies and drinks and snacks!!!!!!! I hope it helps them out....

We have a myspace and a facebook page now so stop in and check it out! our website will be done in the next two weeks!!!! Can't wait!!!!!

Marketing...What fun!

2009-09-19T20:26:00.001-04:00

So I have been working on things to get our name out there for all to see. We are hooking up with the Sarasota Zombie Pub Crawl, Gohound.com. Our web site will finally be completed within the next two weeks!!! I am still working on some ideas.....It would be great to drum up business. I like it busy not slow, of course.

We hired a nice young lady to work the weekends. She started today. She is cute and social. I like her. We just need a nick name for her. "Karaoke Boy", if you are checking up, yes, we will always have a place for you whenever you need it! See you soon and behave while you are away at school. Make good choices! We have decided to rename "Comic boy" to "One-Way". Why? I'm not really sure since he really isn't a one way individual. He likes it so we let it be!

I am working on a special for the week.....I think it might be a cold soup. I will keep you posted. Enjoy the weekend and remember we are open again for Saturday and Sunday! Stop in for something good!

getting Ready...

2009-09-16T23:59:00.000-04:00

Well we are getting ready for our busy time. We just joined Phillippi Shores Business Partners Program. I can't wait to get involved and to help out the school! Everything sounds exciting so I will keep you posted on the fun things we get to participate in at school.

So yesterday I was sad....So sad to say goodbye to Patrick Swayze! My favorite actor of my teenage years! Dirty Dancing is still one of my favorites! So sad, our hearts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones. One great movie line, "Nobody puts Baby in a corner!".

On a lighter note, we banged out two soups today. Tomorrow will be a little busier! Three to four to get down. I am going to make a Carrot Soup for a second special this week. Something a little lighter than the Cream of Navy Bean Soup. (it does smell great!)

This weekend will be our first weekend back after the summer. Remember, Saturday 11am to 7pm and Sunday 11am to 6pm. I'm sure I will be there at some point. Soccer Saturday, Cheer leading Saturday, and yes Church on Sunday! Stop in and check us out....New things happening!!!! Find us on Twitter.com!!

Slow but Steady.....

2009-09-10T13:37:00.001-04:00

The Soup King is a bit slow right now but steady. I am still cooking everyday so I guess that is a good thing! We are going to have Navy Bean Soup with Ham next week. Starting on September 19Th we will be open on Saturday and Sunday again. We will open at 11am and close at 6pm. Stop in for your weekend favorites. Besides, everyone has a million places to run to so who has time to cook!...

"The Soup King" is gearing up for his construction life to take over again. Work is gradually coming to light, maybe times are ready to change. "Muscle Guy" is busy running around with his special friends on the weekends....I guess we will have to work something out for him with working on Saturdays again. "Comic Boy" has informed me that he does not like his nickname....I have been trying to come up with a new nickname but I am just drawing a blank.....Any suggestions? "The Little Ones" have been busy with school, soccer and cheer leading. Maybe closer to November they will be back to work. "Little Miss Responsible" is as happy as can be to be in PA. She started school on the 9Th and loves it, even though I made her take a full roster which includes honors Chinese for a language. No, Spanish II was not enough. I get to go home and see her soon so I am very excited about that!

No, there really isn't much drama going on here these days. Since "Fire Chick" and "Grammy" have left us things are very calm. We like it that way. I guess its all good since they both still chat every once and a while. It is what it is!!

We are planning some great ideas for our one year anniversary. There may be some cool give aways!!! We will keep you posted. Enjoy the weekend and stop in and see us!

Back To Work!

2009-08-30T13:04:00.000-04:00

So everyone is back to school and I am back to work. Cooking was good this week. It took a day or two to get back into the swing of things but by Friday I was pulling the place apart to clean and inventory. I guess I am ready to work again. "The Little Ones" were hanging out Friday after school....without "Little Miss Responsible" here they will have to spend more time at the store with us. Yes we let her stay in PA for school. She is staying with my father so she will be fine. Of course I will miss my baby but I want her to be happy.

We are working on some specials for this week. Yes there is Wild Rice and Sausage...and tomorrow I will be making Lentil Soup. That was a request today so I will bang that one out first thing. After that I should be pretty caught up and can then focus on paperwork!(YUCK!)

So stop in and say hello....if you mention the blog over the next two weeks you can save 10% on your meal! See you soon!

The Last Blast!!!

2009-08-16T23:45:00.000-04:00

So today was the last family blast for a while. The new baby was baptized and we had a great celebration after the ceremony. I am going to miss everyone so much!!! My sister in-law is following us back for a few days to have some vacation time in our new home front. She will also be bringing "Little Miss Responsible" back to Pa with her. She has had enough of Florida and is ready to stay in PA.......So finally... "The Soup King" has agreed to let her return for her high school career. I am going to miss my baby but I guess people send their children to boarding school all of the time so maybe that's how we will treat this new adventure!!!

Everyone was there at the patyt. Well, everyone we wanted to spend time with. It was great!The "Little Ones" were swimming and having fun with all of their cousins! "The Boy" was at the shore for the weekend with our PA neighbors and he had a blast....he got to the party late but he still held his new cousin! I even got a picture!

We have spent time with so many people during our visit. It definitely makes it hard to want to go back. Of course there are people around who we really rather not cross paths with but that is such a small issue compared to our heartache to be away!

I am still working on finding a PA location for another store so we can be close to our family! That is just so important to me. I want all of the "Little Ones" to grow up knowing that at the end of the day your family is what counts. It's unfortunate the "The Soup King" does not have that kind of bond with his family. My family despite any differences are always there even when we are angry at each other or disagree about things. Family is unconditional, well on my side any way!

"The Soup King" is anxious to have his family back in the same house with him...we have been gone for about six weeks. I think he is just tired of doing his own wash! (hee-hee) we all miss him very much so it will nice to see him again! As different as we are i still love him! besides, he is really cute! I will not be back in the store to work til the 24th when all of my "Little Ones" return to school. "Muscle Guy" has informed me that two new individuals have joined our team. Can't wait to meet them and see how they are working out.

Sounds like the special for the week will be Cream of Onion. I made lots of soups why I was here for everyone to taste and they can't wait for a store to open. No, I didn't share any recipes......that would only be done by someone who is spiteful and nasty!!!! "The Soup King" is working on a cookbook that maybe one day will be available for all.....we will just have to wait and see.

The fall brings a very busy buzz to the store so I am sure that he is eager for all of us to return so we can help out at the store. Well I will keep you posted on how our 16 to 18 hour drive was with all of the "Little Ones" and our new guests who have decided to take a chance at this new adventure!!!! Keep a weathered eye on the horizon!

Still Hanging With The Family!!!

2009-08-03T23:46:00.001-04:00

We are still hanging out up here in PA!!! "The Soup King" is running things right now and juggling everything else he does...As we visit our family I am looking for locations to open a store in PA. I think it would be awesome. "The Soup King", not so much, he likes Sarasota...he never wants to live up here again! I really don't have many friends, I just have a big family that I love very much! Yes, despite all of our differences and faults....we still manage to love each other! That's really what family is anyway, right?

I have to admit that I do miss the store and the boys! The "Little Ones" are exhausted everyday from running with friends and cousins! This past weekend we went to see the new baby at his home in New Jersey....so adorable!!!! Almost makes me want a baby again...then I realize, I have five!

I checked in today...did some emails and ordering for "The Soup King". Have to check in....yes I am gone a long time but I still worry. Sounds like things are going well. "Muscle Guy" was out today...things to do, people to see! "Comic Boy" and "Karaoke Boy" were in to assist "The Soup King" with the daily events. "Karaoke Boy" will be leaving us for college soon which will be sad. He says he will be back at his breaks to help out! Let's hope so!

Tomorrow brings another visit with friends so I am excited. We are off to see my twin godsons!!! They are four years old and yes they are absolutely like "Jeffrey" from Bill Cosby's stand up routine as Himself!!! it should be fun... We are watching my great niece again tomorrow too!!! She is just so cute that I want to take her home with us!

Well I guess that's good for now on the family updates....I have yet to hear from "The Soup King" to give you an update on soups.....I will check in again tomorrw!!! Chat with you then!

Still Away??

2009-07-30T12:23:00.000-04:00

Our trip is still at a very high pace! We are visiting with cousins and friends and enjoying every minute of it!!! Returning to school so soon is not something that any of us are looking forward to! We are excited that as we return to Sarasota my sister in-law and my two nephews will be driving back with us! We get an extra five days of family!!!!!! YEAH!!!! Our third week is just about over and we still have so much to do! The "Little Ones" really miss their own house up here! Staying at Grandpop's is great for me but they want their old rooms back......Oh well, maybe in another year or so!

"The Soup King" is still working hard on new soups.....Cream of Onion is one of his newer features! I still like the originals! Well after I touch base with "The Soup King" I will give you a heads up on next weeks specials! Enjoy!

Philadelphia Fabulous!

2009-07-21T21:38:00.000-04:00

We are home and loving it! Yes, it would be more fun with "the Soup King" here too but we can't have everything. The store is doing okay...we are not do back until mid August. Tomorrow will bring us a new baby to the family and we can't wait! The last week has been full of family fun....parties, baseball games...just fun stuff!

So yesterday was "Little Miss Responsible's" birthday! Yes 15 already.....The whole driving thing scares me. I guess "The Soup King" will have to take care of the driving lessons. I will do the prom thing...Oh he is good at that stuff too. We may have to flip for it! Over all she had a great day. She was just happy to be back in her hometown even if she didn't hear from everyone!

"The Soup King" has five new soups that will be making an appearance soon..I am still interested in finding a good location in PA!!! It is a working progress. Everything is always up for negotiation!

So the "Little Ones" and I just wanted to say hello.....we will keep you posted on our activities....I may actually make it to the Liberty Bell with them before we had back to Sarasota!

Ready, Set, Go!!!!!

2009-07-09T20:49:00.000-04:00

The time has come for all of us but "The Soup King" to venture home!!!!! Today is my father's birthday and the goal was to be back in PA for this day....Unfortunately I am worried about leaving the store. I guess I really do like working and getting things done! I think we are going to miss the neighbors too! We love hanging out with them, they have great "karma"! The family is getting anxious for our return. Both sisters and my sister-in-law have called to find out our estimated date of departure. It feels good to know that we are missed so much!

"The Soup King" will be hanging back in Sarasota working on multiple projects. I am hoping that he starts with the new marketing idea that we have been given!!! Wait and see....it is so cool! I can't spill the beans yet but hopefully by Labor Day we will have it out in full force. The week before the 4Th of July was busy which is always nice..The "Little Ones" have been working very hard at the store so I am sure they are looking forward to a rest! I started a "myspace" for the store. It is very cool...lots of pictures and tunes on it to really let you know who we are as a family!

This week was busy for me! We knocked three cream based soups and a broth in one day! I think it is so cool to watch the soups just "bam!" come together! I like that I know most of the recipes without looking......we have fun. "Comic Boy" comes in early and we jam out to tunes like The Beatles then Meatloaf....work moves fast when you have fun! "Muscle Guy" is back to his old self banging work out and keeping the place looking spiffy. "Little Miss Responsible" has been at the house getting things ready for our trip....cleaning and prepping. "Drama" and "The Boy" have been at the store for the most part over the last week and a half. Its always fun when they start to argue over silly things! "Frick and Frack" just keep reminding me that we should be on the road already!

So, the Mac-N-Cheese is awesome! Just right! The taste is just really good....Very cheese, the macaroni is just right too.....Come on you know you want to try some!!!!!! Come in, just a bite! The $5.00 lunch deal is working out well. We keep seeing new faces, some familiar but new faces too! That is always good....I guess that means the word is getting around some how!

I can't wait to see what "The Soup King" has up his sleeve for next week. I think there will be some surprises to try..... He loves to eat!!!

We will be putting an awning up with more outdoor seating come the fall. We are working on better seating for in the store as well. I really want to make it comfy for everyone. I will keep you posted on our journey. Stop in and see "The Soup King", he will be lonely for a couple of weeks! Have a great one, then have some soup!

Yummy Stuff!

2009-06-24T18:36:00.001-04:00

Mac-N-Cheese is finally here! made out of our own roo!!! Next we will create a great kids deal with it. Now the challenge, what kind of drink will the little ones prefer? Juice box, Capri Sun, Kool Aide Jammers??? Sunny D? Once I figure out this one we are good to go....It is a yummy new addition.

Things are up and done right now.....The store is quiet but so is the area. Everyone we talk to tells us the same thing, "it is like this everywhere at this time of year". I would like to be a little different than everyone else so we are working on that as well. The "Little Ones" have been working hard this week with me at the store. yes, up bright and early and putting in a full day. They are definitely tired when they get home.

So I have a new addiction, "Ramsey's Kitchen Nightmares"!!!! Love it!!! Can't get enough!!! I really love watching.....learning new things! Fresh is the key!! I totally agree with that idea.....and keeping it simple. I never thought that I would be cooking all of these soups but here we are and its been a lot of fun....I like that I can just do it without really even thinking about it already! I can't wait to go home and make fresh Clam Chowder for my family!

The 4th of July is approaching quickly and I am chatting with "The Soup King" about a traditional soup for the holiday.....We had a special request made for Italian Wedding Soup and it is here and ready!!! The specials are interesting to make...I even tried a second Watermelon with Feta...I am not sure if I like it or not so come on in and try a taste and let me know what you think!!!!

New Feature Deals!!!

2009-06-19T17:00:00.000-04:00

So we have talked about trying to find ways to help everyone out with this bad economy....We now have a Five Dollar Menu for you to choose from. It includes a bag of chips and soda with either a small salad, 6" sub, or cup of soup, or for Five dollars a 12"sub or sandwich. Pretty good deals and the sandwiches include BBQ Chicken, Ham, Turkey, Roast Beef, Grilled Cheese and Tuna! I think this should make lunch time doable for everyone!!!

We are planning our specials for next week...Get ready for Italian Wedding Soup and Strawberry Soup. Of course we will still feature our Melon Ball Soup.....something cold for this hot weather is a must!

"Comic Boy" did okay running things last week. But yes, I am back so here we go! "Muscle Guy" is doing his thing....fratinizing with the pretty ladies, yes "The Soup King" would like to be doing the same thing~but he is married! "Karaoke Boy" has been hitting the pavements with our new menus, maybe he should sing a jingle when he is out and about! Some one new has joined our team once again but I'm not sure how long she will be here....we will have to see how things go..

We have met new guests that were very enjoyable to talk with this week...It is always nice to listen to other people's stories. Even with all of the friendly faces that we see I still miss my family and can't wait to go back and visit! The summer is full of so many birthdays and new babies that it will be gathering after gathering! I love get "togethers".....we are always the last ones to leave!

"The Soup King" is busy with many projects....always trying to improve himself and his work. He never feels fulfilled. He should be proud of himself for all of his accomplishments! He is certainly never afraid to take a chance....That to me is very admirable.

What can you do!!! Just roll with the punches and wait to see what tomorrow brings! We will be here waiting for you to come back and visit.....Yes, there is always more to our story..come on in and we will fill you in on all of the fun stuff!

Home Again!!!

2009-06-10T21:28:00.000-04:00

Last week offered fun stuff with cooking and creating new soups! We now have Melon Ball soup which is awesome!!! "Comic Boy", (you know, the one we needed a nick name for), came up with this great one for hot days.....Watermelon juice, sherbert, honeydew, and cantaloupe...We also have another special this week....Chicken and wild rice. We are just cranking soups out like crazy! We are having a lot of fun while we do it too....

"Muscle Guy" has been a little pre-occupied with some things but is still hanging tough for us. "Fire Chick" has moved on...."The Soup King" is working hard on his construction business while I get to hold down the fort at the store. It's nice to actual have something that I can call my own!!! "Comic Boy" is really working hard to take care of business! We are very proud of him!

Right now our family unit has ventured home to Pa...lots going on here! Visiting, playing, sharing meals! We are just happy to see everyone we love. Yes, I did guilt "The Soup King" into letting me tag along. I should have stayed back to run the store since he is here on business but we have some trust worthy individuals helping us out!!! Besides, "The Soup King" hates to see me cry.

The "Little Ones" are extremely happy to see all of their cousins and friends....Everyday is busy with some appointment or dinner to catch up with family! It was really fun this time because we did not tell anyone that I was tagging along too! Surprise!!!!! I can't wait to see my niece and her cute little baby belly! She is having a baby in July! We are actually having two babies this summer so it is really exciting. "The Soup King's" nephew is having his first baby in August....two new nephews! I love babies, especially when they are not mine! We certainly have enough little blessings in our house!

We are still working on some new ideas to really energize and entertain you when you stop in....just be patient with us! We appreciate your loyalty as well....I know times are tough for everyone and we are trying new things to make life a little easier for all......Look for our coupons for Wednesdays...buy one bowl of soup and get one free!!! I am working on a new kids meal...Mac n Cheese with a drink and dessert! I know that my "Little Ones" will be happy about that one! Who knew that only one of five would eat soup...I was hoping that would change as time went on...

"Comic Boy" has been working with me on some great ideas and working out the kinks that we have with organization and just staying on top of things. He has a great sense of drive so it is a lot of fun....He goes home and brainstorms, comes in the next day and is just bouncing with thoughts and ideas, I love it! We really did a great job getting everything organized and together. I even have the ordering of supplies down to a pretty good science. It is really great that we all work together...we all have a common goal and we just push to meet it everyday. It's nice to finally have a calm environment to work in, well maybe not calm but laid back.

"The Soup King" is eager to return to Sarasota....he has lots to work on and is anxious to get a few more cold soups out for everyone to try. The Potato and Ham is still hanging has one of my favorites! Heat or no heat, everyone has to eat!!! Stop in and visit us....see what surprise we may have for you...see yo soon! Don't worry, I will be bubbling with info after all my visiting is done too!

Happy Memorial Day!!!

2009-05-25T10:33:00.001-04:00

Thank you to all who have served to defend this great country of ours! Today we remember all of those who lost their lives to defend our freedom and those who continue to serve in order to preserve what those who served before them have won for us! I know that in PA my father has is flag at half mast in remembrance of those lost......My father is very patriotic..flags and eagles are everywhere in his house. I think that he would have been a military man if he had not met my mother. All three of his brothers were in the military. My mom asked him to stay, so he did, and now here we are.......

I am already thinking about what needs to be done this week....Split Pea, Gumbo, Vegetable soup!!!! Chili is done....Chicken Noodle is done.....Tomato Basil too....I told you cooking was unbelievable last week! Work, work, work! The store has been busy....even the sandwiches are moving along nicely. I am working on a mac-n-cheese for the little ones that visit us. I know that my "Little Ones" are not big soup fans so I am sure that there are a few little people out there who share their views on soup. Once we do that children won't mind stopping in with mom and dad for a bite to eat. Hopefully by Thursday I will have it ready!

We spent most of the weekend just hanging out. "The Soup King" went to Key West at the end of last week for bid meetings....Keep your fingers crossed! We cooked and ate all weekend....We even built a small fort for "Frick and Frack" in the yard! They love to climb!

Hope to see some of you this week........keep your suggestions coming! We are always interested! I will keep you posted on the new soup of the week once I chat with "The Soup King"....have a great day off!!!!!

What A Week!!!

2009-05-22T23:21:00.000-04:00

Rain Rain....Come Again! Business has been crazy! The weather definitely worked in our favor this week. I have made more soup in the last week than I have in my entire life...granted, I just started cooking the soups so I guess that doesn't really count. Unfortunately for my niece and her friend the weather did not cooperate. They were in from PA to play in the sun but they only got two days of sun!! I guess she needs to plan another trip to visit me!

I must say that we have met some great people this week. Friendly, interesting, and just a pleasure to serve. I love to hear about people and their lives! Planning babies, moving, new jobs....all with a smile and a positive outlook. It makes all of the stress worth wild!

Our Beef Vegetable, one of our specials has moved quickly. My only problem with that is I am not sure if "Muscle Guy" and "The Soup King" ate it all or if we sold it! The Chicken Corn Chowder must be a good one for winter.....of course we do have some followers for that one!

I have finally reorganized the entire store...Its funny how things get done when you just buckle down and move! I think that I have one more closet to do...maybe I will make "Muscle Guy" do that one! Now all of the paperwork is calling my name.

All of the "Little Ones" worked with me tonight. It was fun but stressful at the same time. "Frick and Frack" are tough because they get bored very quickly. "The Boy" did a great job scrubbing dishes and helping out tonight. "Drama" was in a bit of a mood but that is just a normal week day for her. "Little Miss Responsible" has been in good spirits for the last few days, even when she is at the store. "The Soup King" was off to Key West for the last two days working on his construction business.

"Muscle Guy" has been distracted all week. I think he found a new love to occupy his time with!! Love is grand when it is new!!!!

"The Soup King" and I celebrated our 14th wedding anniversary this month. Who knew that even with not one thing in common we would still be together! I must love him, I followed him to Florida!!!!! "Drama" had her birthday last weekend which was very eventful. She threw herself a birthday party. Give her the chance to plan and she runs with it! Seven little girls for a sleep over was just fantastic!

I can't wait to make more changes at the store. I want to bring in a sofa for guests to kick back on while they wait for their food.....I want to get movies up and going ....The food network can only work for so long!!! Change is good People!!! Let's do it!!