Veterans, Avocados and Yummy Stuff

Today is Veteran's Day, so naturally my thoughts turn to my former husbands, both WWII veterans. Because they were 17 years older than me, they fought to protect my freedom, even as I lay in diapers in my crib. It worked.

Rea spent the first part of WWII in Newfoundland, where he wrote the camp newspaper. Submissions were slim so he penned a few under pseudonyms. To keep the conversation going he wrote & published opposing views and editorials under other fake names. Not so easy since he didn't suffer from multiple personality disorder. Later, in France, he learned important life lessons and was able to pursue his art career through the GI Bill. Living a bohemian life in Provence was appealing, but Rea ultimately felt compelled to return to the US where he became an art director & creative director for a NYC advertising agency. Even though he created this campaign in the 1960's, people are still asking "Who's that behind those Foster Grants?"

His father, an injured WWI soldier recovering in a French hospital, met a young American woman with the YMCA. After returning to combat, and several fortuitous encounters, they fell in love. Back home Elizabeth & Robert Brown chose to be married on November 11th, Veteran's Day. Years later their daughter Betty beautifully framed his Purple Heart, the accompanying certificate and related items. It will be part of an upcoming exhibit honoring veterans at the South Florida Museum.

My Dad, defending Kings Highway in Brooklyn

On the other hand, my Dad wasn't conscripted into the military. The first time around he was the parent of an infant, and in the next round he had aged out. He showed his patriotism in other ways. A Tommy Gun, given to him as a war souvenir, once was prominently displayed in the front window of his drug store. It was carefully positioned pointing up where it appeared to be shooting out a series of Ex-Lax boxes. He wasn't military...just funny. And yes, one day the Feds arrived in tan raincoats and confiscated his Tommy Gun.

Since the holidays are almost here, YIKES, next week I'll offer some special baked items that make wonderful gifts to share. You'll be able to order in advance & pick-up before Thursday Nov. 28, when Thanksgiving & the first night of Chanukah begin. I'll also have some special surprises coming for the December Village of the arts ArtWalk on Dec 6 & 7, including yummy dog treats. Sorry Twinkie, nothing special for you this week. Stay tuned.

Here's what I'm happily baking in my kitchen this week:

Cheddar Mini Boule    $2.50

These small breads are filled with lots of fresh sharp Cheddar, which tends to erupt in the oven like a volcano. Not to worry, there's still plenty of that yumminess inside.

Oatmeal Raisin Walnut cookie

Big Cookies   $1.50/each

Individually wrapped & available in the following flavors:

Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, Orange Belgium Dark Chocolate Walnut, Oatmeal Raisin Walnut, Pecan Coconut Belgium Milk Chocolate, Classic Snickerdoodle, (NEW) Pumpkin Oat White Chocolate Cranberry    

The answer to a chocoholic's prayers

Chocolate Orgasm Cookies   $5/pkg

My legendary chocolate delivery system made from melted Belgium Bittersweet chocolate, toasted fresh almonds & chocolate chips. Available in a plain brown bag if you don't intend to share with others.

Roast Garlic Blue Cheese Breadstix   $4/pkg

This was the original product that launched my baking career. Developed for my husband Rea after two years of experimentation. Great flavor from fresh ingredients and they stay crunchy despite humidity. Perfect partner for a cocktail, soup or dip.

Cranberry Orange Muffin  $2

Always a favorite at BONNI BAKES Bakery/Cafe. The perfect balance between fresh tart cranberries & sweet Florida oranges. Toasting just intensifies the flavor.

My Pesticide-Free Haas Avocados  $2

These yummy avocados are from the tree that my TreeHouse is built around. Their very creamy interior is delicious in a salad or sandwich, filled with shrimp salad or starring in guacamole. A limited number available for a very short time.

Homemade Jam & Chutney   $4/8 oz jar

Peach Mango Brandy, Mango Strawberry Cardamom, Blueberry Lime, Mango Chutney, Mango Meyer Lemon Lime, Pineapple Mango Rum, Peach Melba, Mixed Berry, Blueberry Lemon, Ginger Pear Chutney.

 Everything always hand-made in small batches with the best ingredients & locally sourced when possible. No artificial flavors, colors, preservatives or fake stuff EVER!!

ORDER BY 5pm WED.  PICK-UP AT

FRIDAY or SATURDAY 11-4 in Village of the Arts

at BONNI BAKES Gallery 

930 12 St W (just south of MLK)  

OR

SUNDAY 11-3 at Palma Sola Farmers Mkt

  at Geraldson's Community Farm, directions at

facebook.com/palmasolafarmersmarket

All items in limited supply...first come, first served

TO PLACE AN ORDER 

call me at (941) 746-6647 

  or email  bonnibakes@gmail.com  

   PAY BY CASH OR LOCAL CHECK MADE OUT TO BONNI BROWN  

 Hugs from my kitchen,
Bonni