There was a “Neighborhood Lawn Sale” in my neck of the woods this past weekend and we decided to join in the fun.
Since we didn’t have much “stuff” to sell, I tried something a little different – I’ll call it an “Abundant Living Ttwist” on the lawn sale theme.
I set up a bake stand and sold homemade cakes, muffins, and scones, along with my all-time favorite yogurt (with maple syrup, jam and granola toppings).
With my sister by my side, we set out to see what ‘those who travel the back roads of upstate New York’ eat for breakfast.
Unfortunately, I can’t say this was a big hit.
Some of the yard-sale-connoisseurs and expert-deal-hunters turned their noses at us, almost insulted that we might dare offer them food.
Of course I understood, since I’m a deal seeker myself and I know the adrenalin rush of the crisp morning hunt.
One dedicated shopper was even overheard muttering “I didn’t come all this way to eat!”
(That was good for a few chuckles!)
So, instead of handling the mad rush of adoring fans eager to eat all of my culinary creations, we did a lot of people watching, laughing, and catching up, just like sisters do.
We smiled as cars slowed down to read the sign that showcased the menu, and then as the realization hit that this was no ordinary yard sale, they abruptly looked away and raced off to the next house.
One very polite woman rolled down her window and asked “Do you have anything other than food?”
And at least two dozen folks asked for directions to the next house without even getting out of their car.
(up the hill about half a mile, first drive on the left).
And so the morning went. Not a lot of interest in a little homemade goodness, or some fresh brewed coffee to brighten their day.
Ah well. We tried.
The BAD NEWS: We eventually sold enough to cover our costs, but didn’t make much profit.
The GOOD NEWS: it was a grand experiment in the the finest entrepreneurial fashion, we had an awful lot of fun, and there are plenty of leftovers. Breakfast at my house will be unusually good for the next few days!
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
I had a blast and many laughs! I wouldn't have wanted to spend my Saturday any other way. That and my breakfast scone was very delicious this morning!
I totally would have bought some of your yummy goodness. I almost always have my kids with me and food is an excellent way to bribe, I mean *reward* good behavior.
I'm curious in a blog-stalkerish kind of way where in Upstate NY you are? My mom is from Binghamton and my dad is from way up near Watertown. I'm jealous of people who live there– it is God's country!
Hey Erin – Neat that you have connections to UNY!
We're outside of Cooperstown, about 90 minutes east of Binghamton. Most people visit our area for the Baseball Hall of Fame – the tourists arrive in all of their baseball glory every summer. It's definitely beautiful (as long as you can tolerate snow in October and frost in June!) and a good place to call home.
Glad you stopped by to say hi!
Admirable how positive you stay! The spread looks so delicious, me I would have forgotten about the yard sale!
Your table is so fabulously arranged! All that amazing graniteware in those cheerful colors…
The same thing would have happened to me — no one would have bought anything — but my table would not have been so charming!
You need to try again at a farmer's market or upscale fair!
I have to admit, I'm one of those bargain shoppers who slides right by the food and drinks people offer, as they cost more than the clothing or whatever else I'm looking at.
However, I would have been tempted by your spread simply for the presentation. Absolutely beautiful!
I would have been all over your food!! I love good stuff like that in the morning. What a bunch of grumpy yardsale hens!!! That was a great effort on your part. I guess I am not among the the experts in the field…