05/28/2026
The other day, while I was vending at the hospital, a little old lady probably in her eighties came up to my table. She was so bright and excited, choosing a few cupcakes, ginger tea, and my cognac caramel puddings.
As I packed them up, she smiled and said, "Oh, I think my husband would really enjoy that pudding." Knowing the recipe, I gently let her know that there was real alcohol in it. She looked at me, completely at peace, and replied, "That's okay, honey. He has cancer, and he doesn’t have much time left anyway." My heart squeezed for her in that moment, and I sent her off with all the love I could muster.
Then, this morning, my phone rang.
A fragile voice on the other end said, "Erica?" I replied, "Speaking." She said, "I bought cupcakes from you the other day at the hospital..."
And then I heard her start to cry.
Through her tears, she continued... "Well, my husband passed away. And I just wanted to call and tell you how much we enjoyed your cupcakes together." I am completely undone by this. Her husband passed away within the last 36 hours, and amidst the heaviest grief a person can experience, she still found the time and the strength to call me.
When I say that Shorte and Sweet is built on love, this is exactly what I mean. I mix, bake, and prepare every single item with the hope that whoever eats it feels comforted, special, and cared for. To know that my treats played a tiny role in this sweet couple's final memory together is truly such an honor.
Thank you to this beautiful soul for calling me. And thank you to all of you for letting me bake for your celebrations, your milestones, and your quiet moments. You are always wrapped in love here. 🤍🧁
