Here we are in the first of the “ber” months and I’m welcoming them with open arms. Grab a beverage and let’s sit down with Coco and Deborah for the Ultimate Coffee Date. I bought some “Hokie Blend” coffee beans from a tiny roastery in Blacksburg, VA, and of course I’m adding some Great Lakes Wellness Collagen to my brew, as always. What will you be sipping?
Hello September, Let’s Have Coffee
Over coffee I’d ask you if you have any goals for the rest of the year. Between hip surgery, quitting my job and opening a micro-bakery, then getting the in-laws moved into a senior living facility, 2026 was a momentous year here so far. I’m honestly planning to relax, coast a bit and just enjoy myself.
Over coffee I’d tell you my new fall bakery menu is out and seems to be a hit so far. The Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Sourdough shown above was so much fun to make. It may taste even more delicious than it looks!
Over coffee I’d tell you that, even though it’s September we’re having a heatwave here that’s made this the warmest start to September in 40+ years. I hate to complain, but I’m not a fan of triple-digit heat indices. Remind me about the heat when it’s 20 below zero here.
Over coffee I’d tell you I’m excited for college football season! Georgia Tech has a Thursday night game and Virginia Tech plays on Saturday! Both teams should be good this year, we’ll see!
What would you tell me over coffee? Are you taking advantage of any Labor Day sales?






Well, Marcia, after everything you’ve packed into 2026, I think you’ve more than earned the right to coast for a while! That Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Sourdough looks dangerously delicious. What did you put in the middle that makes it look like a pumpkin stalk? It’s clever!
I’m beginning to think your micro-bakery is going to have you busier than your old job ever did! 😄
Well you sure have had a very busy year so far. I’m all for relaxing and enjoying the next few months. That pumpkin cinnamon bread must smell delish! I love this biz for you! Enjoy
Great to hear your bakery venture is going so well – as I’ve said before I wish I lived closer, that Pumpkin Cinnamon Sourdough looks just too good!
I hope the Ber-months offer you a chance to relax.
Oooh pumpkin cinnamon sourdough?! That sounds amazing!! Hopefully you get a chance to slow down soon. Summer ending means it’s busy here, but not as busy as May-cember for me 🙂 A microbakery sounds daunting but also fun – I’m excited to hear about how the adventure goes!
Oh my goodness, that pumpkin cinnamon roll bread looks amazing! I can understand why it’s been so popular with your customers!
Go Hokies! BTW, it’s not final, but it looks like we won’t be going to Blacksburg for any games this year. Basically, I waited too long to look for a room and can’t find anything for under a ridiculous amount (I found one for $700/night – yikes). Back when we had season tickets, the hotel we stayed at would call me as soon as the schedule was released to see if I wanted to book (so they spoiled me) and this year I just forgot… Anyway, if anything changes and we make it to the VT vs GT game, I’ll let you know.
Have a great weekend, Marcia!
Awh, your pumpkin cinnamon creation looks too cute to eat. It also sounds delish! Yeah, as much as I love summer, the humidity could take it down a notch. I’ve resorted to almost zero hairspray this week, because it just adds frizz instead of holding any style, LOL.
You have had quite a year and deserve to coast for a while.
The pumpkin cinnamon roll bread looks amazing! I wish I could swing by when I’m in Chicago. 😉
You’re kind of making me want to resurrect my sourdough starter! that’s gorgeous!
Sounds like you’ve had a massive year so far! You certainly deserve to just chill and enjoy life for a bit.
How nice with another heatwave! I went for a walk this morning and it felt tropical but now it’s turned to lashing rain and it’s quite cold inside. I wouldn’t mind your temperatures at all!
Hope your bakery is going well!
Oh yes, I’m hearing all about your weather from my son and sister. They are NOT happy!
OMG that bread. It is so, so cute and sounds insanely delicious. I would imagine your micro-bakery is doing very well. I would also imagine you could keep yourself very busy baking holiday treats through the end of the year!
You’re making me want to start baking sourdough! Is your microbakery brick and mortar? It looks like you’ve found your niche, my friend!
Ahh, that pumpkin cinnamon roll sourdough is so adorable!
Those light rays are so pretty! (Sorry to hear about the humidity though. Hang in there!!)