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American Tradition: Bake Sale! 
There are many American traditions, but perhaps none quite as sweet as the school bake sale.

In the past few years, an amazing group of moms at our local elementary school began battling the budget cut blues the old-fashioned way: one cupcake at a time.

In a clever twist, however, these thoroughly modern mothers and PTA pros kicked it up a notch (or several), proving once and for all: if you make it really, really cute they will come. Channeling their inner bakery vixens a'la 1950s, the apron clad army displayed treats on cake stands, enamelware, cupcake racks -and even an old counter scale. Goodies were packaged with ribbons and bows, decked out with flags and trims. Vintage tablecloth and platters were procured and baskets were dressed. It was Pinterest on a sugar high. "Sugar, ah...honey honey.. You are my candy girl..." Bakers throughout the school were asked to whip up their best -and they did. Everything on the table was priced at $1, with whole pies going for a bit more. Decisions, decisions... Got milk? Cake pops were beautifully displayed in bowls filled with popcorn kernels to help them stand tall. I am happy to report, this year's bake sale -like previous sales -was wildly successful and completely sold out. It reminds me of one of my very favorite quotes by anthropologist, Margaret Mead, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever does."

This post is dedicated to exactly such a citizen. Although, we have lost an amazing leader and caring friend in Laura Lamarra Costley through her life and her passion she did indeed change the world, and in doing so, inspired everyone she touched (including myself). For these reasons and so many more her spirit will never truly be gone. "Just sayin'."
Posted by Bonnie McCarthy at 7:55 AM Labels: bake sale , fundraising , PTA

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