What a Brilliant Idea

Stop me if you've heard this one before. 

Six years ago today, I sold 24 jars of salsa at my first market. It wasn't called Chip Magnet Salsa. It wasn't called anything. The labels were handwritten. Yes, handwritten. Ingredients and all. 

This was something I wanted to do for spending money. I was a stay at home mom, and well, sometimes stay at home moms have little to no spending money. That was me. And when I did splurge on something, Jim got mad. Because, in reality, we couldn't afford it. 

So, I had this insane notion that I would make and sell salsa at outdoor markets. The money I had leftover after replacing inventory would be my spending money. 

Folks, it NEVER went the way it was supposed to. Every dime I made went right back into the business. Pretty soon, Jim was running the finances and all my hope of spending money faded into oblivion. Now this was a legitimate business. I was screwed. 

It might sound like I am complaining. I am not. I am beyond grateful for everything that has happened over the last six years. The good and the bad. I have grown as a person. I have learned many lessons that some people never get the privilege of learning. The lady who didn't know how to login to her college internet account (yes, I was a non-traditional student, don't hurt yourself trying to do the math) now runs all the marketing and social media for Chip Magnet and Sauce Appeal. 

Are there days I want to throw in the towel? You bet. 

Are there days that I cry more than I laugh? Yes. 

Are there days that I sit and say "why" on repeat? Yep. 

Would I trade it for anything? Not a chance. 

And it is all because of you. The people who took a chance on a $7.50 jar of salsa (yes, that is what it cost at the first market!). The people who came to the market en mass to wait in line to taste the new flavors. The people who told their friends. The people who bought it for their friends. The people who shared it on social media. The people who stood up to the market when we got kicked out. The people who asked for it at their local store. The people who worked for us for minimum wage when we couldn't afford more than that. The people who worked long hours in the blistering sun and the pouring rain, standing at markets. The people who watched my kids while I worked. The people who come and say hi when they win tickets. The people who tell our story. 

We love all of you. 

Thank you!

Incidentally, now I knit and sell my wares for spending money. Anyone need a sweater?