Ross was diagnosed with autism in 1987, at the age of 2 1/2. As a parent of a child with autism or any other disability, careers are challenging, to say the least. So many times I thought I could be Supermom and do it all. In reality, that is far from the truth. Any spare time in my schedule was spent preparing special meals for Ross, attending doctor and therapy appointments and any other unexpected event that sprung up. It was also a priority that Clint participated in all of the activities special to him, adding all the practices, lessons and games.
Those were the years that Greg and I rarely had a full night’s sleep, due to Ross’ horrible sleeping pattern. This, for one, doesn’t lay the best groundwork to fully focus on a desk full of work in an intensely structured job. I worked as an assistant in the Special Education Department for a few years and then became the Youth and Education Director at our church. Our work and school schedules were in sync, also allowing me to have the flexibility if either of the boys needed me.
I stumbled into the candy business quite by accident. It all started the year I decided to make our son’s elementary teachers caramels for their Christmas gifts. These handmade gifts from my kitchen, were well received and given rave reviews. With requests growing every year, Greg realized that this might be a good business opportunity. ‘In Good Taste’ was born.
Perfecting my craft was challenging, and getting it right every time was essential. I learned how to cook each batch to the perfect temperature. Discovering that two or three degrees either way would give you either ice cream topping or a Slo Poke. Hours were spent reading, researching and practicing. The product line began to quickly grow. Snappers (my version of the Turtle), chocolate covered caramel varieties, chocolate nut clusters and my signature caramel pretzel. Part of our garage was converted into a commercial kitchen that allowed me to make candy at home, while continuing to be available for my family.
Feeling confident after hours of meticulously perfecting my candy making skills, my candy shop was opened on the historic town square in the fall of 1997. Over the years, I have certainly had my “Lucy” moments. Melted spatulas, splattered caramel, dropped trays of product and of course spilled milk.
My shop provided me not only with the flexibility I needed, but a pathway for me to flourish. I was able to set the rules and create an environment that I loved. While pursuing my new found passion, and exploring my creativity there was a constant spinning of new ideas in my head. Creating something from scratch, not only the candy, but my specialty shop. Over the years, I was blessed to build a team of outstanding women and are now some of my dearest friends. When the time allowed, I continued to research, attend seminars and trade shows. Giving me a wealth of information, while continuing to build my brand and strengthen my confidence. While all has not been perfect, I have learned to embrace my failures and learn from them. Last but not least, all of this has given me a story to tell, and I love to tell stories…with lots of detail.
Since moving to Arizona, I have found a renewed passion for creating delicious confections. This career has once again allowed me to be the Mom and now Nana that I wanted to be, in addition to feeding my desire for creativity.
After seeing some pictures of my new confections on Facebook a few months ago, a friend commented that I was “blooming where I have been planted.” This kind comment continued to be in my thoughts and then, blooms started popping up everywhere. I noticed over the months that in the desert there was a constant rotation of different plants blooming with vibrant color. The hair stylist that was recommended, has a shop named Bloom. She has been able to artistically blend the new, lighter colors I am growing. The flower business, Lorrea Blossoms, located in the same building as my candies, specializes in seasonal and locally grown beautiful blooms that are bursting with new colors every day. I have also had the privilege of watching the three young owners blossom in their new businesses, Southwest Trading Co., Wet Dirt and Rosebird Gardens.
All of the lessons I have learned and the road that I have traveled brought me here. They have given me a greater appreciation of what life has to offer. My surroundings are much different than Illinois and certainly not as green. However beauty is everywhere, if you choose to look. I am feeling more grounded and comfortable calling this my home, and yes, perhaps I am blooming where I have been planted.
Marla, you are an amazing woman who can and does it all! When you worked at the church, you were just starting the candy business. I don’t know how you did everything from taking care of the boys, going to Clint’s sporting events, doing the extra’s for Ross and having your day job and night job in your kitchen. You and Greg were meant for each other and your boys both thrived under your care! I’m so happy you have been able to get back into the candy business in Arizona. I hope I can some see it someday! You are missed and deeply loved by many of us in Christian County!
Ginny, you are much too kind! You were certainly a witness to some of those crazier years. I am grateful that you were always happy to lend an ear.
Thank you for your friendship and kind words. While our family is enjoying many new adventures here, we will forever be blessed to have lived in such a wonderful community. Sending lots of hugs your way!!
Please let me know if you head our direction. We would love to see you!!
Marla i miss you and Ross so much. This blog of yours makes me feel as though im still talking and seeing you. Yes my dear i knew you would bloom there in Arizona or wherever you are planted. Love ya girl..
Denise, thank you for reaching out and your kind words.
We will never find anyone who can help us with glasses that way you did!! We miss you a lot!! You were always so kind not only to me, but Ross. Thank you for always going the extra mile.
You never know when one of the office visits might pop up in my writing. Do you remember how he cheated on reading the chart!! Sneaky boy, looking through the mirror!! Haha!!
Love and hugs!!
Marla
What a truly beautiful story! I am so happy for your family & the new adventures life has in store for you.
Thank you for sharing & inspiring others.
Tracy Meyer
Thank you for your kind words, Tracy.
Having the time to reflect and write has been a blessing to me. Life is certainly an adventure and we are so fortunate that Ross has handled our move so well.
Thanks again for reaching out,
Marla
You are truly awe inspiring for all you have accomplished and continue to do for your beautiful family while still looking truly fabulous!
Rhonda, Thank you for your sweet words. You are much too kind.
I have been truly blessed by supportive and loving family and friends. It has definitely taken a village.
Love you!
Marla great story! You are truly blessed.!
Thank you, Mr. Smith. We are blessed indeed.
Oh, Marla! When I had the boys, I remember you giving me boxes of your toffee!!! Oh my!!! *drool drool*
I miss running into you and Ross for our afternoon Kroger conversations!!!
Dana, I miss seeing you at the store as well! We have become used to being incognito…our grocery runs definitely don’t take as long! Ross hasn’t had to give me the eye, with his arms crossed when I have been talking too long!! Haha!!
You all were wonderful test subjects 😉
Hugs from AZ!!
Marla, you show others how it should be done. You set an example for so many and help make their path easier. Many blessings!
Melissa
Thank you so much, Melissa.
Loved reading your story, Marla. Well written. Glad you are “still blooming” as we all hope to throughout our life. We miss your sweet treats but Arizona is fortunate to have you so they too can enjoy them as well as getting to know the Brotherton family. We still have Donna here with us to enjoy. Glad you are happy out West!
Thank you for your kind words, Rita. We do love it here and Ross is doing very well. Donna is certainly a joy and blessing to have around. We are looking forward to her Thanksgiving visit!!
Donna told me she was coming to Arizona for Thanksgiving. Lots to be thankful for. Enjoy your visit and happy holidays!