The Messy Baker Book Launch – A recap

Sunday came and went in a book signing blur. One minute I’m smoothing table cloths, straightening serviette stacks and calmly telling my sister there’s plenty of time before we should put the cookies out. The next, I’m barking orders at anyone within ear shot to get those plates of baked goods outside NOW and throw the hot appetizers into the oven, stat! The next few hours was a whirlwind of hugs and kisses and signatures as 100 guests toured the garden, sampled recipes from the book and bought copies of The Messy Baker before it even hit the stores. (Yes, that’s Rose Murray on the left and Pat Crocker on the far right.)

I had planned to do a short talk and thank the people who helped. We had a microphone and amp all ready and waiting to go. It was even on a sturdy elevated surface so people could see me when I spoke. There was no time for speeches.

At one point I managed to down some cucumber water. My husband, (blue shirt, far right) ensured I didn’t choke.

Then it was back to the Sharpie.

Because I couldn’t thank everyone at the time, I would like to now. I couldn’t have done it without my parents.

My Dad trimmed hedges and edged the grass. He made numerous trips to the dump with bags of yard waste and hedge clippings. He picked up the sound system, set it up, and then returned it – unused. Mom baked and baked and baked. When she was done that she spent half a day rolling appetizers. She didn’t bat an eye when I showed up at her kitchen door with a washtub full of Sweet Potato Samosa filling and three packages of phyllo. And the next day, she baked again.

Allison, the sister with the champagne bottle, mowed the lawn. Robin, the sister with the milk bottle, kept the hot appetizers coming and filled plates to the brim with goodies.

My mother-in-law kept the plates piled high with carbs.

My brother-in-law provided the live music for the whole two hours. His light jazz added more than just notes. It helped turn a book launch into a festive event.

Although not pictured, my camera-shy husband helped too. He ran numerous trips to the grocery store to buy forgotten ingredients, or simply MORE ingredients as I locked myself in the kitchen and ploughed through triple batch after triple batch of cookies, squares, brownies and savories. He kept the coffee flowing, played secretary when my hands were covered in batter, and made dinner when I simply couldn’t face the stove again.

For those who attended, I thank you. Your presence meant more to me than I can express coherently. You were the double-stuff filling at my Oreo party. Let’s not think this one over too carefully. This metaphor can’t withstand much scrutiny, but the sentiment is there.

For those who couldn’t attend, I’ve put together a video from the photos taken by two talented people — Simon Bell, Executive Director of Focus on Nature, and Connie Moore, a friend and gifted shutter bug. The video’s music, The Messy Baker, was composed and played by my brother-in-law, Dale Bonnet. When your hands are on a keyboard or camera, you can’t eat. Their sacrifice to the cause has been dually noted.

Thanks to all who helped, attended or sent words of encouragement.