Candy Gift Boxes

Your Questions About Christmas Candy Corn

Susie — Tue, 15 May 2012 09:47:05 +0000

Carol asks…

Christmas Candy/Cookie Tins?

Somehow I ended up being miss Christmas over the years so now I have to get presents $30+ for everyone (1 dad, 3 moms, 4 brothers, 3 sisters and a bf), make handmade cards (17 people) AND make a cookie/candy tin (5 bigger tins for families and 4 kids theyre just getting the caramel corn). This year I was thinking of just doing caramel popcorn with peanuts, sugar coated guava or fig jam stuffed cookies and almond cookies. I’m just really sick of the holidays before they even start. Does that sound like a good enough assortment?

Susie answers:

Sounds good i think every one will appreciate what they get the economey is bad and many people are only doing gifts for there own house so its very nice of you to do an assortment at all.

Richard asks…

Can someone help me with a list of well known candy recipe sites?

I am making candy for Christmas and I need a list of ‘well known’ candy recipe sites, or some recipes that you have used yourself that have turned out. I am making the following…

Hard Tack (rock candy)
Pull Taffy
Fudge (chocolate or peanut butter)
Butter Mints
Pop Corn Balls

Thanks very much in advanced. Any recipes that have been tried are seriously appreciated, as I don’t have a lot of time to make that many mistakes. Thanks again =)

Susie answers:

If you go to www.foodnetwork.com, you can type in “candy” under the search and explore what they have or narrow it by the candy specialists (go to “TALENT” on the left and click on “Jacque Torres” or “Gale Gand”… Torres is a famous chocolatier and Gand is a top dessert/pastry chef & candy maker)

Here’s Gale Gand’s recipes for lollipops, toffee, fudge, taffy, peanut butter fudge and popcorn balls:

Candy Corn Suckers, Recipe courtesy Gale Gand
Show: Sweet Dreams
Ingredients
6 or 8-inch lollipop sticks, as needed
Candy corns, as needed
2 cups sugar
2/3 cup corn syrup
2/3 cup water
1/4 teaspoon orange or lemon extract
Few drops orange or yellow food coloring
Small plastic bags, as needed
Plastic spider finger rings, as needed
Equipment: Lollipop collar molds; Silicone baking mat

Directions
If you have lollipop collar molds, lay them on a silicone baking mat-lined sheet pan, fit them with sticks, and place 1 piece of candy corn in each collar. Or, just lay out the sticks in rows on a silpat mat, leaving 3 inches of space between them and place a piece of candy corn above the stick.

Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water in a clean, dry small saucepan (preferably 1 with a pouring spout) fitted with a candy thermometer, and bring to a boil over high heat. Without stirring, cook until the mixture reaches 305 degrees F or “hard crack” stage on the candy thermometer. (While the syrup is cooking, occasionally wash down the sides of the pan with a clean brush dipped in water, to prevent crystallization.)

When the mixture is done, remove the pot from the heat and dip it into an ice bath for 15 seconds to stop the cooking. Add the extract and food coloring and stir very gently with a wooden skewer so that the color is evenly distributed. (To avoid air bubbles in the finished lollipops, stir the mixture gently in both directions, but be careful not to over mix.)

Pour or carefully spoon the syrup into the molds or just over the sticks and candy corns, if not using collars, to make a quarter-sized disk. Cool until hard, at least 20 minutes.

Lift the suckers off the mat and remove from the molds. Slip plastic bags over the lollipops and gather the bag shut with a plastic spider finger ring. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Chocolate Toffee Recipe courtesy Gale Gand,
Show: Sweet Dreams

Ingredients
2 cups sugar
1/3 cup water
3 tablespoons light corn syrup
12 ounces salted butter (3 sticks), cut into chunks
1/4 cup cocoa powder, preferably Droste or Valrhona
1 cup whole blanched almonds, preferably Marcona, toasted and roughly chopped
Equipment: Silicone baking mat; candy thermometer

Directions
Line a sided sheet pan with a silicone baking mat, or oil it well with vegetable oil (or use a heavyweight nonstick sheet pan).

Pour the sugar into the center of a saucepan fitted with a candy thermometer. Pour the water around the edge of the pan and wait to allow the water to moisten the sugar. (You can draw a clean finger through the center of the pan to allow some water to seep in.) Add the corn syrup and bring to a boil. Add the butter and boil until the mixture reaches 300 degrees F.

Turn off the heat and whisk in the cocoa; then stir in the nuts. Quickly pour the mixture onto the center of the prepared pan and let it spread out—it may not reach the sides of the pan. Set aside to cool at room temperature until hard. Using your hands (I wear gloves to avoid fingerprints), pry the toffee out of the pan and break into large pieces. Store in an airtight container. The toffee will keep well for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.

Creamy Rich Walnut FudgeRecipe courtesy Gale Gand
Show: Sweet DreamsEpisode

Ingredients
4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
1 1/4 cups milk
3 cups sugar
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, optional

Directions
In a saucepan heat the chocolate and milk on low, stirring until it’s melted. Add the sugar, corn syrup and salt and heat to the softball stage (236 degrees F).

Add the butter and pour off into a mixer bowl to cool. Add the vanilla and beat with a paddle until it starts to lighten; then quickly add the nuts. Continue beating on low until it loses its gloss and thickens. Pour into a greased 9 by 9-inch pan and spread evenly. Let cool then cut into 1-inch cubes.

Taffy Recipe courtesy Gale Gand

Ingredients
1 1/4 cups corn syrup
1 cup sugar
1 tablespoon water
1 teaspoon butter
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla and/or mint extract

Directions
In a large saucepan, place all the ingredients except extracts, and gently stir them to combine. Place a candy thermometer on the side of the pan and bring to a boil, stirring only to prevent burning. Cook to hardball stage (265 to 270 degrees), remove from the heat, stir in the extracts, and pour onto a silpat-lined sheet pan or buttered pan. Let it cool enough to handle then start rolling it into a log and stretching or pulling the taffy to work air in and make it white and opaque. Keep pulling and twisting until it hardens. Form long ropes of taffy, then cut them into pieces.

Some tips when making taffy: Oil the top 1-inch of the saucepan’s wall to keep the sugar from boiling over. Always use a pan bigger than you think you need to prevent boiling over. Always use a burner as big or bigger than your pan’s bottom. Never scrape the bottom of the pan at the end, just pour out the syrup. Wash down the sides of the pan with a clean wet pastry brush to avoid crystallization.

Peanut Butter FudgeRecipe courtesy Wayne Harley Brachman

Ingredients
Non-stick vegetable spray
1/4 cup roasted, unsalted peanuts, coarsely chopped
1 cup milk
2 1/2 cups sugar
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 ounces creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions
Line an 8-by-8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and lightly grease with vegetable spray. Sprinkle the peanuts over the bottom of the pan. Put the milk and sugar in a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan fitted with a candy thermometer. Boil over medium heat, occasionally stirring to keep from sticking. Cook until the mixture reaches 240 degrees F (soft ball). Remove from the heat and gently place the butter, peanut butter and vanilla in the pan, taking care not to disturb the syrup. Do not stir. Let the mixture cool down for 5 minutes, then beat vigorously with a spoon or the flat beater of a stationary mixer until dense and smooth. Turn the fudge into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a metal spatula. With a sharp knife, score into portions. Let set, 45 minutes then cut into 1 1/3-inch squares

Elsie’s Easy Popcorn Balls, Recipe courtesy Gale Gand
Show: Sweet Dreams

Ingredients
3 tablespoons peanut oil
4 tablespoons popcorn kernels
1/2 tablespoon salt
2 cups sugar
1 cup water
1 cup light corn syrup
3 tablespoons butter

Directions
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil and kernels, uncovered, over high heat until first pop. Cover and remove from heat for 1 minute. Return to high heat and shake until popping ceases. Sprinkle with salt and shake to distribute evenly. Measure 2 quarts of popcorn, and reserve.

In a saucepan, carefully combine the sugar and water then add the corn syrup and butter. Bring to a boil and cook to soft crack stage. Pour over 2 quarts of popcorn and mix gently but thoroughly with a wooden spoon. Wearing gloves or baggies, mold into balls around popsicle sticks.

AND here’s a recipe from Chef Emeril Lagasse for Butter Mints:

Butter Cream Mints
Recipe courtesy Emeril Lagasse, 2004
Show: Emeril Live, Episode: Candy Treats

Ingredients
10 2/3 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 pound confectioners’ sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon pure mint extract
Directions
Cream the butter in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on low speed until it is soft and fluffy. Add the sugar and the mint extract and beat at low speed until the mixture is thick, creamy, and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Cut 2 large sheets of plastic wrap and place on your work surface. Divide the mixture into 2 equal portions and place each on the plastic sheets. Roll the mixture into the plastic wrap, forming it into logs about 1/2-inch in diameter. Wrap the plastic wrap securely around the logs and chill for 4 hours.

Pinch off about a rounded teaspoon of the butter cream and shape into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on parchment or waxed paper and flatten with the tines of a fork. Refrigerate in layers of parchment paper in an airtight container until ready to serve. Mints will keep for up to 1 week.

Steven asks…

Do you have any good no-bake recipes for Christmas goodies?

I don’t have an oven, so no lovely Christmas cookies for me this year! But so far I’m making Rice Krispy Treats, Oreo Truffles, and Corn Flake candy (hey, sounds a bit brand named huh?).
Anybody know anymore good ones? My husband would love something that wasn’t so crunchy lol, and without nuts.

Susie answers:

Half a cup of water,
half a cup of oil
one cup of flour
a pinch of salt
3egg yokes
Boil the water and oil,then add flour and salt,stirring all the time,till the dough forms a ball and leaves the sides of the pan. Take it off the heat and let it cool.
When it is cool enough to handle,beat in the egg yokes well and leave to rest.
Make little balls the size of walnuts,then fry in hot oil. While still warm,make tiny slits in them.
When cold,fill them with sweet or savoury filling, or both.
Merry Christmas

Susan asks…

In the spirit of Halloween, what’s your favorite scary movie & Halloween candy?

My favorite Halloween movie is Nightmare Before Christmas, and I absolutely looooove the mellocreme pumpkins and candy corn! =)

Susie answers:

My favorite Halloween movie is The Nightmare Before Christmas as well, but my favorite candy is Reese’s

Sandra asks…

Christmas desserts? Please help me! No one has been answering this question?! :*(?

Hello everyone. Im looking for some desserts, and christmas desserts.
What can I make with what I have? I have:
- 2 bags milk choco.chips
- 2 cans condensed milk
- peanut butter
- cinnamon
- marisheno cherries
- hot cocoa
- unsweetened cocoa(swiss miss)
- whip cream(store-bought)
- heavy whipping cream
- butter
- Gold Metal Flour
- baking powder
- baking soda
- salt
- granulated sugar
- vanilla extract
- white icing
- red icing
- green icing
- sprinkles(red, green, blue, and yellow)
- milk
- honey
- eggs
- Karo LITE corn syrup
- Christmas Cookie Cutters
- Halloween candy left over (reeses, hersheys, baby ruth, butterfinger, etc)

I also have some supplies:
- spatulas
- knives
- 12 cup muffin tin
- baking trays
- whisk
- Electric Stand Mixer

Im looking for fudge, cupcake, sugar cookies, and frosting/icing for my cookies! If you give me some of these recipes, Ill choose you as “Best Answer!”

Thank You! Merry Christmas!!! ?

Susie answers:

Foolproof Chocolate Fudge
This classic and truly foolproof fudge recipe will be a favorite for years to come. Try one of our suggested variations or personalize the fudge by adding your favorite ingredients to the basic recipe. Fudge also makes a great homemade gift to share with family and friends.

Servings: Makes about 2 pounds
Serving Size: not available
Nutrition: not available
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients
3 cups (18 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 (14-ounce) can EAGLE BRAND Sweetened Condensed Milk (NOT evaporated milk)
Dash salt
1/2 to 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
In heavy saucepan, over low heat, melt chocolate chips with EAGLE BRAND® and salt. Remove from heat; stir in nuts (optional) and vanilla.
Spread evenly into wax paper lined 8- or 9-inch square pan. Chill 2 hours or until firm.
Turn fudge onto cutting board; peel off paper and cut into squares. Store covered in refrigerator.

Notes: Microwave: In 1-quart glass measure, combine chocolate chips with EAGLE BRAND® and salt. Cook on HIGH (100% power) 3 minutes or until chips melt, stirring after 1 1/2 minutes. Stir in remaining ingredients. Proceed as above. Variations: Creamy Dark Chocolate Fudge: Melt 2 cups miniature marshmallows with chocolate chips and EAGLE BRAND®. Proceed as above. Milk Chocolate Fudge: Omit 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips. Add 1 cup milk chocolate chips. Proceed as above. Rocky Road Fudge: Omit 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, salt, nuts and vanilla. In saucepan, melt chocolate chips with EAGLE BRAND® and 2 tablespoons butter or margarine. In large bowl, combine 2 cups dry-roasted peanuts and 1 (10 1/2-ounce) package miniature marshmallows. Stir in chocolate mixture. Spread in wax paper-lined 13×9-inch pan. Proceed as above. (Makes about 2 3/4 pounds)

Cupcakes can be made from any basic cake recipe, white, yellow or chocolate.

SUGAR COOKIES/ICING FOR COOKIES

1 stick butter
1 c. Sugar
1 egg
1 tbsp. Milk
1/2 tsp. Vanilla
2 c. Flour
1 tsp. Baking powder

Cream butter, sugar and vanilla all together. Add egg. Beat until light and fluffy. Stir in milk. Stir in sifted dry ingredients. Blend well. Divide dough in half. Chill 1 hour or more.

Roll dough on floured board to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut with a floured cookie cutter.

Bake on cookie sheet, in a 375 degree oven, for 8 minutes. Cool. Store in tightly covered container.

Makes 4 dozen cookies. Frost with icing.

ICING FOR COOKIES:

3 c. Sifted confectioner’s sugar
1/4 c. Milk
1/2 tsp. Vanilla
Dash of salt

Combine sugar, milk, vanilla and salt; mix well. Add food coloring. Frost cookies. Add candy sprinkles if desired. Will frost approximately 5 dozen cookies.

Your Questions About Divinity 2

Susie — Mon, 14 May 2012 09:47:28 +0000

Richard asks…

there is a game called divinity 2 flame of vengeance’s and i wonder when is going to be released in ksa?

i really LOVE it and i have waited for ever and i can’t wait any longer i need it :I but its still not out yet in my country please help me and i cant trust them to deliver it to me >:P

Susie answers:

P
Patience for a little bit longer.

Mark asks…

atheists; what are the 2 biggest reasons you reject the divinity of the Bible?

Susie answers:

1. Evolution is proven and not one speck of the Bible has been justified

2. Actually reading the Bible (it’s completely sexist and contradictory.)

Robert asks…

magic the gathering “Nip Gwyllion” black/white cast of 1 “edge of the divinity” enchant creature +1/+2 ….?

to white creature +2/+1 to black creature. Nip is an either or creature in cast so does the enchant creature get both effects or you pick from the 2 since it is an either / or? also curious in creature types is creature-elf and creature-elf (whatever named) still considered same creature type? thanks everyone!!

Susie answers:

A card color is defined by its casting cost, and in some cases, by the rules text (ancestral memories, evermind, transguild courier, etc).
Since Nip Gwyllion is black and white (defined by the card’s cost), it will get both, the +2/+1 and +1/+2 from edge of divinity for a total of +3/+3.

Two creatures share a creture type if one of the subtypes is the same.
For example: llanowar elf (creature – elf druid) and bramblewood paragon (creature – elf warrior), share a creature type. Also Ambassador Oak (creature – treefolk warrior), share a creature type (warrior) under current rules.

Paul asks…

Why won’t Divinity 2 run without lag on my laptop?

I havn’t gotton the full game yet but I played the demo version of divinity and for some reason it lags and from what my laptop has it shouldn’t lag at all, here’s what I have (CPU Speed – Intel Dual Core – 1.8 GHz / RAM – 2 GB (Vista/7)/ OS – Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium Edition (build 7600), 64-bit/ Graphics Card – ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4200 Series)
and here’s what Divninity 2 needs (- OS (operating system): Windows XP/Vista/7- Processor: Intel Pentium 4@3.0 GHz / AMD Athlon 64 3200 +- RAM: 1 Gb- Hard Drive: 9 Gb free- Video Memory: 128 Mb- Video card: nVidia GeForce 6800 / ATI Radeon X1600)

and just last night i deleted a bunch of my other games AND defragged my hard drive and it’s still exactly the same, can someone plz tell me why it’s not working?

Susie answers:

Your computer simply does not have the processing power, the game requires 3.0 GHz, and your computer has 1.8 GHz, your best bet if you want to game on your computer would be to either build a computer specced for gaming or buy a gaming computer.

This may seem like a downer, and believe me it is. I have the exact same problem

Michael asks…

Downloading Divinity 2: Ego draconis without a credit card?

anyone give me a website were i can download Divinity 2: Ego Draconis for Free with no credit card?

Susie answers:

Illegal downloads are against the copyright laws. Lets respect the authors.

Your Questions About Dark Chocolate Candy Bars

Susie — Sun, 13 May 2012 09:47:06 +0000

Betty asks…

White Chocolate, Dark, Chocolate, Or Regular?

What type of chocolate candy bar do you like? What is your favorite brand and do you like it with or without nuts?

Susie answers:

White Chocolate.

Joseph asks…

Best Poll Ever! You most enjoy chocolate in what form?

Ice cream, candy bar, cake, brownie, milkshake, M & M’s, etc…

Me, I love Haagen-Dazs chocolate ice cream, also dark chocolate bars.

Susie answers:

With penut butter!!!

Mark asks…

My dog ate a lot of chocolate?

My dog ate about a half a grocery bag full of chocolate today. It had hershey kisses and dark chocolate bars and other candies. I was at school. When i got home he had puked once already and puked another time in my preasence. Since i’ve gotten home he has drank about two and a half bowls of water and has puked 5 times. Gradually the puke became just water though.

He seems to be acting okay. Just restless and stuff. But will he be okay? He is about 50 lbs.

Susie answers:

He might die or have a really weak stomach

David asks…

Are you nostalgic for discontinued chocolate bars?

I loved the following bars but sadly they are no longer being produced.

Cabana (coconut, cherries, caramel) made by Makintosh;
Aztec (finger of fudge encrusted in peanuts) made by Cadbury;
Old Jamaica (dark chocolate chunks with rum flavoured raisins) made by Cadbury;
Texan (hard chewy nougatine covered in chocolate) made by Rountrees Mackintosh;
Weekend (chocolate and candy assortment) made by Mackintosh.

Which bars would you like to see again?

I would like to get a petition together to ask for these bars to be reintroduced. Is anybody with me?

Susie answers:

Yes. The Marathon Bar that was around back in the 70′s. Not the Snickers bar in disguise that is around now. It was carmel, braided and dipped in the most delicious chocolate.

Sigh……………..

Maria asks…

Hardcore cravings for dark chocolate?

I have NEVER really been a fan of candy or chocolate. Then out of no where a few weeks ago I started to have a craving for chocolate. I went in and bought like 3 dark chocolate hershey’s bars. I can’t stop buying them now! Thankfully I have gained any extra weight! ha ha

Any ladies out of no where get a hardcore craving for chocolate that doesn’t seem to want to go away?

Susie answers:

Hahahh i always have a craving for chocolate

Your Questions About Local Candy Stores

Susie — Sat, 12 May 2012 09:47:05 +0000

Joseph asks…

What children are not “ours”?

Today, in far too many places around the world, children are suffering and dying. We turn our backs or avert our eyes because, I suspect, they are not “our” children. Their race or ethnicity is different than ours. Their religion is not ours.

I grew up in New York City in a neighborhood in which almost everyone was Jewish and of German or Polish descent. It would have been everyone except for me and my family. I was the lone non-white, non-Jewish child.

Ruben owned the local candy store and soda fountain. He was a Holocaust survivor who had lost his entire family to Hitler’s killing machine. He had his concentration camp tattoo to prove it.
Working for Ruben was a plum job with the neighborhood kids. In addition to the pay, you got all the soda and ice cream you could eat and access to all the comic books on sale there. Competition for a job was fierce.

Ruben hired me.

Some of the ladies in the neighborhood were miffed that their sons had been passed over and two of them approached Ruben and upbraided him for not hiring a child who was “one of us.”

There was a long pause as Ruben just stared at them and then looked down at the tattoo on his forearm. “Since when” he asked them, “has any child not been one of us?”

Now I ask all of you the same question. Since when has any child not been one of us?

Susie answers:

None. All children are ours. This is why i do not understand why people criticize madonna for adopting a child out of her race. The child needed a home AND madonna and her husband had love to give. I didn’t like that the focus was on madonna “rescuing” a child. The child who is adopted rescues the parents from being childless, from wasting the love and resources they would love to share. And i appreciate that you shared your story. It is a touching and thoughtful one.

I think we can be immobilized by our own frustration at world hunger. I, myself, feel embarrassed and bad by throwing food away that i forgot about in my refrigerator. What has helped me is the chapter in “don’t sweat the small stuff” that states, “surrender to the fact that life isn’t fair.” it shocked me to hear this idea but what carlson means is compassion is more important than pity for self or for others. And it also helped me relax, let go of the many blunders i have made (leaving water running longer than i should when people in california are fighting wildfires and water shortages) and realize no one person can save the entire world. I have heard, “i cannot save my society, but i can change myself,” and like this quote. I began to realize that giving a little money to each cause that asks is reactive and won’t be as effective as being proactive – choosing a cause to invest in, spend time on, focus your brain power on – and letting guilty feelings that one is not doing enough go. It’s okay to try and save the children or the world – one cause at a time.

Michael asks…

Brain Teaser?

At the local candy store, three delicious candies are on sale.
A Sweetie, a Yummie and a Tastie together cost $.40.
A Tastie is over three times the price of a Sweetie.
Six Sweeties are worth more than a Yummie.
A Tastie, plus two Sweeties costs less than a Yummie.
Can you determine the price of each type of candy?

Tell how you got your answer.

Susie answers:

First get rid of he candies and the shop

this is what you have to solve then

x + y + z = 40
x – 3y = 0
6y > z
x + 2y < z

with x,y,z integers.

Mandy asks…

What do you think of my persuasive speech topics?

I am sort of torn between 3 topics. the first is why should people donate blood.
The second: Is media to blame for poor bosy image?
and lastly is sort of less controversial. I was born and raised in a scandinavian country (sweden) and moved to Boston in 2002. I was thinking of persuading my audience why they should go to Sweden atleast once in their life, and then, i can bring goodies (candy) from a local scandinavian store and bribe people lol

What do you guys think?

Susie answers:

Your third couch is a good idea, there is much more than candy you can use to influence your guests.

Sandy asks…

Word problem MATH! 7th garde!?

Erica has received scores of 82,87,93,95,88 and 90 on math quizzes. What score must Erica get on her next quiz to have an average of 90?

and one more!!

The local candy store buys candy in bulk and then sells it by the paund. if the store owner spends $135 on peppermints and then sells them for $3.50 per pound, how many pounds must he sell to make a profit?

Susie answers:

If the average of 7 quizzes is 90, then their sum is 7×90 = 630

x = 630 – (82 + 87 + 93 + 95 + 88 + 90) = 95

Or do the algebra:

(82 + 87 + 93 + 95 + 88 + 90 + x) / 7 = 90

82 + 87 + 93 + 95 + 88 + 90 + x = 630

x = 95

135/3.50 = 38.57…

He must sell at least 39 pounds of them to make a profit.

Nancy asks…

JoBu’s uncle FaBu came to visit him on Labor Day weekend.?

“JoBu, I have some money to give you”, FaBu said. He gave JoBu
a bunch of coins and said, “These two here are for your piggy
bank, but you can spend the rest on candy. Thrilled, JoBu decided
to run to the local candy store. He had exactly $2.16 to spend and
ended up buying a bunch of lollipops. On his way home, he
passed by the grocery store and in the window, he saw that the
same lollipops were advertised for one penny less each than they
were at the candy store. Ticked off, JoBu determined that he
would have been able to buy 3 more lollipops at the grocery store
for the same price he paid at the candy store! How many
lollipops did JoBu buy? (Hint: Try to make a quadratic function
out of the given information)

Sorry my Calc teacher is a weirdo. How would you do this algebraically?

Susie answers:

Unit price of lollipops bought (y):
yx = $2.16
y = $2.16/x

(y – $0.01)(x + 3) = $2.16
xy + 3y – $0.01x – $0.03 = $2.16
xy + 3y = $0.01x + $2.19
y(x + 3) = $0.01x + $2.19
y = ($0.01x + $2.19)/(x + 3)

No. Of lollipops bought (x):
x($0.01x + $2.19) = $2.16(x + 3)
$0.01x² + $2.19x = $2.16x + $6.48
$0.01x² + $0.03x = $6.48
x² + 3x = 648
x² + 3/2x = 648 + 3/2²
x² + 3/2x = 2,592/4 + 9/4
(x + 3/2)² = 2,610/4
x + 3/2 = 51/2
x = 48/2 or 24

Answer: 24 lollipops were bought. Cost of lollipop is $2.16/24 or $0.09 each.

Proof (he could have bought 3 more from the other store):
$0.09(24 lollipops) = ($0.09 – $0.01)(24 + 3 lollipops)
$2.16 = $0.08(27 lollipops)
$2.16 = $2.16

Your Questions About Caramel Candy Brands

Susie — Fri, 11 May 2012 09:47:08 +0000

John asks…

Candy from Bath and Body Works?

They started selling this candy at bath and body works and its delicious. It’s from paris and they have kinds with chocolate with nuts and chocolate with caramel,etc. You can buy a little box of 3 of the nut chocolates for $6.00(i think) and they come in a cute little pink box with a black bow. Does anyone know the name of this brand of chocolate?!
YES-it is very expensive but i think it may be the best chocolate i have ever eaten and im very eager to find the name

Susie answers:

The brand name is ………………….VERY EXPENSIVE.

(3 Chocolates for $6.00 – That is crazy)

David asks…

Random but answer it please ?

Do anyone like Toffifee?
This is what it is:Toffifee (known in the United States as Toffifay) is a brand of caramel candies. Toffifee are caramel cups containing nougat and a hazelnut, topped with a chocolate button.[

Here's a pic.
http://www.elegantshop.ro/img/flowers/thumbs/big/1146_45b0f80293f97.jpg

Susie answers:

Ahhh I love them, I used to be only able to get them on holidays, but thanks to Aldi and Lidl(foreign supermarkets) they are now available in Ireland... Yeay

George asks…

An old English brand of licorice candy?

Caramel type black licorice....with a two name title

Susie answers:

Callard Bowser

Steven asks…

Opinions or rating on poem #2?

These are both shorts. I wear them to the park. jk.

the 1st is called Candy Heaven

Happiness to eat.
Food for you thats good for you.
Kisses on your cheek.

Cute bunny rabbits with caramel blood.
Marshmellow ducklings in edible mud.
Handfulls of bears.
And a mouthfull of worms.

Refried jelly beans.
Age old gum.
A hospital of broken jaws.
3ft of fun.

Sweeter than the sweetest boy.
Get lost in this candy heaven.
And fill your sweet heart with joy.

good? bad? 1-10? i tried to cover the "sweet boy" line with the morbidity of caramel blood. it was aimed towards girls. i couldent read this to a guy. its too happy.

notice all the brands of candy mentioned or referred to.
i think pple might miss "sweet hearts" and "hershey kisses" dunno.

i also dont think i folled a particular pattern. is it okay not to do that?
and in the 4th line of the second stanza, and last line of the whole thing, i began the line with "and" i know u dont do that in writing essays, but is it okay in poetry?
and there is the matter of the last line in the 3rd stanza. "3ft of fun" refers to fruit by the foot. i think its their slogan too. if i somehow happen to get this published, could they sue me?

the second i have no name for.

Emerald eyes stare at each other.
Stare from behind walls of ruby.
The amber stomach cries upon ears of stone.
For mercy not shown.

The coward seeks among quarrel between great flesh gods.

the colors of the stone are meant to show emotion. emerald=green=envy.
ruby=red=wrath
amber=yellow=cowardice

the last line gives a vague explanation for the rest of the poem.
this one is more about politics or whatever.
the "stomach" is crying for peace among companies. kinda. like if two economical giants clash, it hurts the little pple. but im not sure thats true.
oh, and if i used the word "stanza" wrong, im sorry. im new at poerty and i dont know any of the terminology.

Susie answers:

I like the first poem the imagery is good. But it still needs some refining. My first pet peeve...Read this out loud the rhythm is not comfortable it doesn't fell good in your mouth...I would look at the rhymes...do you want to rhyme or not...the way it sometimes rhyme and sometimes doesn't is jarring. On my first read through I thought the first couple rhymes were a fluke but as I read it over I get the feel you were trying to rhyme but got stuck. I would flesh out your image of this candy boy or if you are trying to say that candy is better than boys clear that up and make the play between the two subjects more pronounced.

The second I recommend you continue working with it There isn't much said and it is confusing. If you have to explain that much to you haven't yet got a poem just an idea.
Please don't feel like I am being harsh. I am trying to give you my honest opinion so that you can know what I experience and think about your work and what my improve it for your audience.

Jenny asks…

How well did I eat today?

Breakfast: small bowl of Honey bunches of oats.
a had some lemonade.
Lunch: Dominos' Pizza, two small pieces of cheese pizza, two pieces of cheesy bread.
little bit more lemonade. [btw, it's the Simply Lemonade brand..]
Dinner: Hormeal Compleats in Chicken & Rice.
And for a dessert, i’m eating this Yoplait Splitz thing.

And through the day, i had like, two caramel candies, as well as a few m&m candies.

I think that’s all. It seems like way too much sugary things. And just like, a lot of food. Is it??
AHHHHH. I ate horrible!!! Ohmygod. No wonder i’m not thin. I’m not HUGE, but still! I’m four-eleven and 115 pounds. D: ew, ohmygod, you all brought it into perspective! I feel giant.

Susie answers:

Looks like you were eating lots of fat and not enough (if any) veggies/fruits. Your lunch was full of simple carbs loaded with cheese (aka fat). You need to drink more water and cut out the lemonade (essentially all sugar). Most of all your meals should be vegetables/fruit. It’s easy to put them in to everthing you just said. In the morning cut up a banana or strawberries in your cereal. At lunch if you want pizza make one yourself but use a wrap for the crust and put lots of vegetables on it. For dinner remember that at least 1/2 your plate should be vegetables, 1/4 grains and 1/4 protein.

Your Questions About Candybar

Susie — Thu, 10 May 2012 09:47:06 +0000

Michael asks…

Does anyone remember the candybar, the Butternut? Where can you find them?

Specifically in B.R. La. we sold these; having a moment of nostalgia and would like some if they are sold someplace.

Susie answers:

Cannot believe they’ve been discontinued! Duhhh, where have I been? Thought I’d seen them in my grocery store but apparently – with the responses you’ve gotten – guess it was butterFINGERS.

I did find a site selling “butternut munch” which might be your only alternative. Go to this site, then type in “butternut”.

Http://www6.mailordercentral.com/trappistinecandy/searchprods.asp

Also found a recipe for butternut balls, but that’s a cookie, not candy. It follows in case you’re interested. Sorry I couldn’t be more help.

PS…if someone tells you where they’re available, please let me know….Thx

Butternut Balls
pre heat oven to 400 degrees
Have ready 45 pecan halves and a dish or ziplock bag with confectionary sugar for coating

Sift together:
2 1/2 C. Flour
1/4 tsp. Salt
Cream
1 C. Butter, add gradually
3/4 C. Confectionary sugar
Blend in:
2 tsp. Vanilla
then add dry ingredients.
Shape by rounded teaspoons into balls with a Pecan half inside of each.
Bake on ungreased sheets 10 – 12 minutes.
DO NOT BROWN. Roll in extra confectionary sugar while warm.

Daniel asks…

Can you recycle candybar wrappers?

I was told that we couldn’t recycle candybar wrappers because they have a coating on the inside of the wrapper? I was also told we couldn’t recycle pizza boxes for the same reason. What are we supposed to do with them if we can’t recycle them as paper?

I am asking this question in the V&V section because I am sending this message from my house and most the people are vegan here.
Michael, that is what I thought. I just have a few of these plastic like wrappers for the vegan chocolate and I am wondering what to do with them since I can’t recycle them in with the paper.
Topsy, your wind smells horid because your body is full of dead animals. My poop doesn’t stink because I am juicearian and I don’t eat solid foods.

Susie answers:

I think you should shove them………………..right in your garbage can.

Joseph asks…

What is your favorite type of candybar, taterchip, and soda?

I like Carmello’s, BBQ taterchips, and Coca Cola.

Susie answers:

I like Butterfingers, Salt and Vinegar taterchips, and a cold cokola.

Sandra asks…

Is there any way to customize Snow Leopard’s dock without using Candybar?

I’ve got the latest Candybar update (after installing Snow Leopard). It works fine with icons, but it won’t change my dock at all.

Susie answers:

Here you are, i’ve found it over there

http://www.uploadz.us/

Laura asks…

How do i get past the candybar salesman in soul silver.?

I finished the RR base with lance caught garados and beat the ice gym.

Susie answers:

By buying a candybar

Your Questions About Chocolate Candy Making

Susie — Wed, 09 May 2012 09:47:26 +0000

Chris asks…

would a card and some chocolate candy make a good gift 4 my boyfriend?

ok, so im thinking of getting my boyfriend a christmas card that says “i love you” inside and some chocolate candy….would that be a good gift?

Susie answers:

Well i do like what you have suggested but you know boys prefer something little more unperishable
like a shirt,a diary,a watch,a basketball or something of that sort,just tied in ribbon and of course a card a simple one take care without the hard to read calligraphies and a simple “i love you” written inside by you(BEST OF LUCK!!!)

Linda asks…

schools for candy and chocolate making in the philippines?

Susie answers:

Http://chef2chef.net/culinary-institute/country/philippines-culinary-schools.htm

Ruth asks…

Tips for making chocolate candy?

Ok I am having major issues. I have made chocolate candy in the past, one I love to make is my own vegan version of reese’s peanut butter cups. The problem I am having is that after they are made and cooled and ready to eat, they start to melt the second u touch them, so u can not hold them w/ ur hands and when u try to eat them anything it touches melts it, so u have to try to eat it w/out it ever touching ur mouth at all or u have choclate ALL OVER your face. Now chocolate bars in stores do not do this, how can I get mine to where I can’ pick it up and hold it with out it melting all over my fingers?
I can not remember what the weather was like but as for cooking the chocolate, I just melted it in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until melted, then poured the choco into muffin cups, put in freezer, melted peanut better poured on top, melted more choc and poured on top of PB then put in freezer again.

Susie answers:

I’m guessing you are probably using regular semi-sweet chocolate chips that you buy in the supermarket. They are not made for this use. If you prefer the taste of semi sweet chocolate you will have to mix a little parafin wax in when you melt the chips. (It is edible and tasteless) You can buy it in 1lb blocks in the supermarket but you’ll have to ask where it is because I’ve never seen it in the same place twice. Just shave a little off (about 1/8 of the bar to a 12oz bag of chips) and melt it with the chocolate.
If you don’t want to bother go to a candy supply or craft store and buy candy melts in dark or milk chocolate and use that instead.

Richard asks…

making chocolate candy question?

how kong dose it take chocolate to get totally hard and dry After you make it?

Susie answers:

A few min depending on the size.

Michael asks…

Where can I enroll for Jelly and candy making course in Malaysia or Singapore + the cost?

I am interested to enroll for handmade/homemade jelly, chocolate and candy making somewhere in Malaysia or Singapore. Hope anyone could posibble advised me the exact school or Chef that open classes for this type of food plus the cost that I have to bear.
Thanks for your help.

Susie answers:

You don’t have to go to a special class to make good jams and candy. Look on the net, candy and jelly is simple to do at home. Good Luck!

Your Questions About Sugar Free Candy Bars

Susie — Tue, 08 May 2012 09:47:05 +0000

Michael asks…

I recently had a baby (i didn’t breast feed) …how long will it take to lose the 20lbs i now got?

I follow a healthy diet of:

lean proteins (chicken turkey,ham)

healthy fats (olive oil, nuts, peanut butter, eggs)

whole grains (bread, rice, pasta, oatmeal, cereal)

low fat dairy (cheese, yogurt, skim milk)

fresh/frozen/canned fruits (but no added sugars)

T.V. dinners (am very watchful or sodium, calories, sugar)

Broth based low sodium soups (no msg)

I drink mostly just water (i dont drink alcohol)

one 100 calorie snack (for ex: cheese stick, raisins, carrot sticks, whole grain pretzel sticks, apple slices, skinny cow cheese, whole grain wheat thins, light buttered popcorn, nuts, 100% juice juice box, orange juice, cherry tomatoes, 100 calorie chips or cracker packs)

one 100 calorie prepackaged dessert
(granola bar/bars, fat free pudding cup, splenda icecream bar, sugar free popsicle, 100 calorie cookies or snack cakes, 100 calorie candies like swedish fish or reeses snacksters, hot chocolate)

I eat mini meals every few hours. I am 5 feet tall & 124 lbs
I will be eating 1,200 calories daily

two 100 calorie snack
four 250 calorie meals

Susie answers:

Congrats. There is nothing wrong with not breast feeding. It’s a personal choice. I didn’t breast feed either. You are eating really healthy. Just continue eating right and start exercising when you feel up to it. You will lose the weight in no time. You don’t have far to go.

Richard asks…

I need help with Halloween wedding ideas!?

Yes, I am getting married on Halloween next year. Well, not ON Halloween, since it’s a Monday, but on the Saturday before. I need some help with some ideas. Here is what I have already.

I want the ceremony to be traditional. With colors in black, white, red, orange, and yellow. I found a dress that is white with red accents. My fiance will have a black suit with white shirt, red vest, and red tie. My matron of honor (that sounds so old) will be wearing an red dress of her choice. The flowers will be orange and yellow mums, sunflowers and orange, yellow, and red roses. Everyone will wear “Sunday best”.

After the ceremony, I will allow time (1 or 2 hours [don't want it to be to long though]) for photos. The reason for the long time, there will be photos in formal wear and in costume.

The reception will be like a costume party. I want to also give time for everyone to change from “Sunday best” to costume.

At the reception we will have a pumpkin carving station and/or carved pumpkins as center pieces, but there will not be assigned seating. There will be a candy bar for everyone to get candy of all kinds (including sugar free for some friends and family that need that). Music will be a DJ that plays a mix of country, rock, Halloween, pop, and other popular and good dancing songs. The food will be a buffet that will be partly catered, but will also have some favorite family foods.

The whole thing will be in an old gothic style catholic church in New Orleans.

Please tell me if you think the time for photos and costume change is ok and if it runs long, what could the guest be doing or what they might think about that part. Also if you have any ideas, please let me know.

Oh, and I don’t care if YOU like the ideas I have so far or not. Our families will. I just need help with extra details.

The best, most unique, and multiple ideas will get 10 points.
Oh, and the best man will have something similar to the groom.

Susie answers:

Sounds like a fun wedding! Having the guests change into costumes might be a bit inconvenient for them, especially if there are folks coming in from out of town, from long distances or worse, having frumpy people who aren’t really into wearing costumes. How about doing a masquerade-type party instead? Have your wedding favor be half masks in fun and vibrant colors. People can wear them all night and guess who is who.

As for the pumpkin carving station, you might want to be careful with that. It can get really messy. Having pre-carved pumpkins as centerpieces would be wonderful! Add in a candle and it will light up your table.

Happy Planning!

William asks…

Help me plan out my meals for this month?

Heya, I’m trying to lose 50 pounds, so I’m eating healthy, and I’m on food stamps, so my budget is very limited (200 per month needs to feed me and my mother). I’d really appreciate it if you guys could help me come up with some menu ideas. I’m trying not to eat anything overly processed–no cans of soup, TV dinners, hot dogs, etc. and I don’t eat any sweets (no ice cream, candy bars, blah blah blah). I’ve considered becoming a vegetarian, since the only meat I’ve been eating at home is tuna and chicken, but not sure if I can give those up quite yet.

At the moment, my menu consists of a lot of veggies and misc. stuff. My meal plan is generally: cauliflower soup, chicken and dumpling soup, chicken soup, and LOTS of tuna salad, with the occasional plain cereal, sugar-free oatmeal. Fat-free milk, low-sugar fruit juices, orange juice, fat-free cheeses, etc. I’d like to stay healthy and keep within my budget but I’m terribly bored. Any ideas?

Susie answers:

Your best friend will be beans..they are cheap, yummy and have a ton of nutrients. Ease up on Tuna..the average adult shouldnt eat more than 2 cans a week due to mercury content. Think pasta, beans, vegetable stew, lentils, Stir fry, brown rice with veggies, rice and beans

John asks…

Healthy before bed snack?

Something that wont slow my metabolism as much as a freakin yummy candy bar
all i can think of is 1)Sugar-free jelly on wheat toast. 2)Cheerios with skim/fat free milk. (:
Thanks bunches!
*smiley face here & there* (;

Susie answers:

Well, to be honest, you shouldn’t be having a snack of any sort before bed. It can cause weight gain because you aren’t burning off those extra calories (you do burn when you sleep, but your body stores that food as fat if you aren’t awake or doing something to burn it off) and it’s much better on your heart to go to be on an empty stomach. Try drinking some decaff tea or a glass of water. That always helps me!

Ken asks…

Does this sound like a good plan so far? (food&diet)?

Breakfast – Special K Meal Bar.
Then went to the gym for about 45 minutes.

Now at work.

For lunch I had:
Sandwhich – 6 peices of light ham (serving size is 7, and 60 calories I think)
1 25 calorie piece of cheese
1 peice of 40 calorie lebonen
and a tiny bit of brounsworth (I don’t know how to spell it) – (about 50 calories)
20 light chips (75 calories)
1 cup of salad (cucumbers, tomato, lettuce and onion) and 2 tbsp of light vidalia onion dressing.

Tonight for dinner I’m having a lean cuisuine (sp?) griller thing.

It’s not that I’m trying to lose weight (althought that would be nice too), I don’t want to GAIN it.

See, I’m on day 3 of quitting cigarettes. I’ve been smoking since I was 13, I’m 21 now. And I only smoked about…5-10 cigs a day. I’m really trying not to gain weight.

OH YEAH! I also had 90 calories worth of sugar free gummy candy.
Also! the bread I used was light as well, 40 calories per slice. I had 2 slices, so 80 calories.

And 2 tsp light mayo and yellow mustard.

Susie answers:

It sounds like you are on the right track for sure. The only thing I would say is that focusing on portions instead of calories might make the whole process easier. Good luck!

Your Questions About Easter Candy Ideas

Susie — Mon, 07 May 2012 09:47:19 +0000

Charles asks…

Isn’t tolerating Easter candy saying something about religion in general?

In that religion isn’t actually that important and that people will buy anything?

It’s that time of year again! Time for the chocolate praying hands, marshmallow bible bars, and everyone’s favorite:Peeps! Actually I like the Mounds eggs an peanut butter eggs

Isn’t Easter candy in fact mocking the idea that if you don’t believe any Jesus rising from the dead that you will burn in Hell? That’s a very serious thing to overlook, isn’t it?

I have always thought that the pastel tone of a modernized secularized Easter belies the severity of what fundamentalist christinaity actual claims.

Yes I know Easter started with the Greeks but I’m just saying.

Susie answers:

Holidays in general have become commercialized, about eating unhealthy foods/treats and partying. But they’re enjoyable none the less. I’m sure there are some Christians who hate the fact that holidays (even Christmas) have become commercialized.

George asks…

Last minute Easter gift ideas for my honey.?

We’re not religious, so the holiday doesn’t have any particular significance other than a sort of cultural celebration we take part in. Nonetheless, I like to try to make holidays special. Unfortunately, I’ve been really busy and haven’t had a chance to think of anything creative. Does anyone have any unique ideas for a simple Easter gift for my boyfriend? I don’t want to do candy or cards or even flowers. No stuffed bunnies or chicks. I’m pretty crafty, but I don’t have much time (like under an hour before he comes over tonight). It might be impossible, but I thought I’d pick your brains before giving up. Thanks!

Susie answers:

Instead of an Easter egg hunt, you could write on little pieces of paper things you love about your boyfriend. Attach the little pieces of paper spaced a metre or so apart to a piece of string.

When he arrives he follows the piece of string through your house getting all the positive little messages. Last of all at the end of the string is an Easter card or similar. And a big hug!

Carol asks…

Easter Baskets?? Any thoughts or ideas?

I’m starting to put an Easter basket together for my boyfriend little by little. I’m looking for stuff put in it besides just candy. Any ideas? I was going to put a t-shirt from Hollister in there & maybe a car charger for his blackberry. . Any other ideas? Cost doesn’t really bother me too, too much! It’s my boyfriend, so I’m willing to spend some extra money.

Susie answers:

You could put his favorite candy and a card.
Does he like sports ? Big fan of a certain team? Mabye he’d like a hat or clothes.
Tickets to a sporting event or concert ?

If you want to do something more meaningful… For valentines day i wrote down 29 reasons i love my boyfriend ( 29 is the number of months we had been together at that time ) and put it in a jar with some candy ! He loved it!!

Good luck! And thanks

William asks…

creative ideas for easter gift for diabetic niece?

my niece is 8 and diabetic. this year i want to get all my nieces and nephews (8 of them) easter gifts but not the traditional candy since it can’t be enjoyed by all

Susie answers:

Hi there. Great question! If you haven’t done so already, be sure to post this under the Diabetes section as well to get more replies and suggestions.

My daughter is diabetic as well and this will be the first “real” Easter since she was diagnosed last year right around then. I would suggest things like bubbles, lip gloss for the girls (depending on age), books, Play Doh or Silly Putty, temporary tatoos, coloring books, a small craft, pretty hair bands, Hot Wheels cars, etc.. You could also include like one or two pieces of candy that have the carbohydrate information on them to make it easier for her to calculate her insulin.

Good luck and I hope this gives you a few ideas. :0)

Susan asks…

Easter gift basket ideas?

My four friends and i are putting together easter baskets for each other and i need some help as to what to put in it besides like candy and stuff….
alll ideas welcome

Susie answers:

A live M80. End Easter with a bang!

Your Questions About Candy Gift Baskets For Men

Susie — Sun, 06 May 2012 09:47:11 +0000

David asks…

I need your opinions, please….?

Which is a better gift idea for my 26 yr old fiance?

Option 1- We’re moving in together soon. He’s been talking about wanting to decorate with antique camera, film reels. (He loves movies and is psyched to decorate the new place.) I saw a cool antique film projector and thought I could buy the first item for his collection and “our” place. As well as make a basket of movie goodies and an invitation to a romantic dinner/movie night. (Only concern is since h hasnt started collecting antiques yet– what if he changes his mind?)

Or Option 2- make a gift basket for him. He has been stressed lately and I wanted to make up a basket for relaxation– a t-shirt of his favorite band, lounge pants, bottle of wine and an invitation for me to cook him a romantic dinner, men‘s shampoo, his favorite candies, coupon for a massage, etc.

What do you think he’d like better?

Susie answers:

I’d go with option 2, it sounds more appealing. Like you said…what if he decides NOT to start that type of collection? Option 2 sounds sexier..I think he’ll like it!

Charles asks…

packaging for valentines day presents?

i’m getting my man’s present from the internet. it’s going to be delivered to my mom’s house, so i can go get it and keep it in my car and out of his way. but i was wondering how to present this present to him? it’s all stuff he needs, and last night i asked him his favorite candies. he said “atomic fireballs, tootsie rolls, swedish fish” should i incorporate that? i really don’t want to give him his gift via basket. help?

Susie answers:

What is the difference how it is wrapped? Decorate the basket, or whatever in a manly type ribbon, bow, paper, or whatever. Paper could be with snow mobilling on it or ice fishing or anything that men do this time of year. Just don’t let it get to be to femmy or sappy. Keep it simple but nice.

Mandy asks…

Valentine’s Day…what do men REALLY want?

I have a VERY romantic boyfriend who goes above and beyond every chance he gets. I’d like to something nice for him in return so he feels special/loved.

His business he started was featured in a Journal — I bought a copy of the article to be matted and framed for him. I’ve also just started to scrapbook. I’ve decided to make my first page about “us” with pictures, memories, and reasons why I love him. I bought a Valentine’s basket and was going to fill it with a few candies, lingerie, and maybe some massage oil. (Forgive me for TMI- but it’s my time of the month that weekend — so the “sexy” gifts may not come into play.) But I thought I could massage/pamper him for a night.

Do you think this is thoughtful/romantic enough? Any other ideas or ways to present it?
He’s not a typical “guys” guy. More on the thoughtful, sensitive side.

Susie answers:

Sounds great. Rreally he wants you and the effort sounds great.

As for your basket and the time. Add one more gift…12 cards that have ‘how do I love you’ on one side and something extra special on the back plus a few ‘any way you want’.

Linda asks…

This is the greatest thing you’ll ever read. What do you think the deeper meaning is/do you have any comments?

There once was a female donkey named Bill the Man. A child girl named Manly Man Foster-Heimer Boy started throwing cotton candy at Bill the Man. Bill the Man, who was usually a peaceful farmer, ran out with her converse on and teleported into the Arabian Desert-where she was born and raised by a group of nomad Cacti. They licked cheese for a living and had just recently become the National Rifle Association. Bill the Man returned to see her mother, Püplanda the Howler, and brought with her the symbolic gift of his people- a flaming bucket of sauerkraut. Her mother reluctantly threw the sauerkraut at her dad Great Yug Poog, and thus he ate the sauerkraut with his pasty eardrums. This act of hatred resurrected the Ghost of Christmas Past who slowly played a soft melody on the piano while reciting ancient Gregorian war chants.

While hopping over monkey shoes in Japan, Goose the Quag; lopsided as a muffin basket, starting gobbling on a rooster. Goose the Quag wandered aimlessly around crowded foreign Boulevards searching for a reason to carry on his honey mustard and pumpkin lollie pop addiction. He, however, was forced into rehab by Bill the Man and he has since been having honey-mustard in small, yet satisfying rations.

But Bill the Man was secretly a bowl of onion soup and she couldn’t handle the pressure from the rainbow muffin clouds. So she shrunk herself and concealed herself in a pool table made of apple juice.

Susie answers:

I’m pretty sure it was tomato soup

Daniel asks…

Amazing story, 3 paragraphs! Read it!!!!! Do you like this?

There once was a female donkey named Bill the Man. A child girl named Manly Man Foster-Heimer Boy started throwing cotton candy at Bill the Man. Bill the Man, who was usually a peaceful farmer, ran out with her converse on and teleported into the Arabian Desert-where she was born and raised by a group of nomad Cacti. They licked cheese for a living and had just recently become the National Rifle Association. Bill the Man returned to see his mother, Püplanda the Howler, and brought with him the symbolic gift of his people- a flaming bucket of sauerkraut. His mother reluctantly threw the sauerkraut at her dad Great Yug Poog, and thus he ate the sauerkraut with his pasty eardrums. This act of hatred resurrected the Ghost of Christmas Past who slowly played a soft melody on the piano while reciting ancient Gregorian war chants.

But Bill the Man was secretly a bowl of onion soup and he couldn’t handle the pressure from the rainbow muffin clouds. So he shrunk himself and concealed himself in a pool table made of apple juice.

Susie answers:

Nonsense