If I had a bakery, I would have a weekly special. I would utilize an ingredient, or a particular technique, that highlighted a specific culture somewhere in the world. A portion of the sales would be donated to the region highlighted. I would have an entire display of the area, incidents of note, famous ties and one entire section devoted to everything that could be done for that region. I would focus a portion specifically on the charitable work I chose to encourage that week, but would give options for other ways to help.
Given the chance to try something new, inside the framework of something familiar like a cupcake, or a pastry, wouldn't you like to know your adventure into flavor also aided the place from whence your new treat came? I genuinely believe most people would.
My store would be filled with pastries, and confections, and delights most familiar. Strange twists on old tastes here and there, a play on texture and expectation just to surprise people. Granted, things like Mayan Chocolate and Cinnamon toast have a potentially limited appeal, but I think bravery is part being alive.
I would strive to make my bakery a place where people came not only for the food, but for the discussions as well. I would thrive in a place where spending time with others was as valued as the quality of ingredients upon which one must insist. I would want people to linger over their morning papers, or question the staff about the origin of the ginger in the ginger-spiced coffee cream.
It may sound quirky, and it may be weird... but wouldn't you want someone in your neighborhood who cared as much about what's happening with the recycling as what happened to the woman who harvested grapes, apples from the Chilean soil so, as the second largest Chilean export to the US, her efforts giving you a fruit salad you enjoyed as she toiled under some of the worst agricultural strain the country has seen in decades?
Would it matter to you that your local coffee shop owner knew that coffee prices were going to rise because of rainfall changes in prominent growing areas near the equator, as well as the new leash laws allowing your pet in more establishments where outdoor eating areas are available?
I want to change the world. I want to do it with flour on my apron, my hair pinned out of my eyes, and my calloused hands setting out the latest tray of Red Velvet Cheesecake squares, Peanut Butter Truffle Brownie bites with toffee and chocolate ganash on top, completely gluten-free Chocolate Tart Cherry Cupcakes, soft baked chocolate chip cookies next to Almond Cranberry tea cookies. I want to throw in an off-handed, "He may not be popular, but Nixon did create the EPA," as that last pot of ultra dark roast coffee is settled down next to the carafe of green tea with honey, both brewed because they were requested, not merely anticipated, just like the bright green Sweet and Sour Apple Cupcakes for a fan who can't see over the counter, but knows her Mom will buy her one if she's good.
That's my dream. I want to own a Bakery. I want to change the world.
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