Croissants, Coffee, and Cherished Moments
Family Traditions and Sweet Memories That Last a Lifetime
9/14/20255 min read
Today was another day spent surrounded by family. Chris spent the morning helping our son Jordan fix his coffee grinder and get his espresso machine “dialed in”—a phrase from the coffee world that in regular terms means a perfect shot of espresso! Watching Chris share his coffee wisdom with Jordan, who’s clearly catching the coffee bug, was such a sweet sight. Even though Chris will miss the daily rhythm of the coffee world since Whittle Bird closed, moments like these remind us that his passion still has a place, especially when it brings family together.
We brought along some of our favorite pastries from Bobby Boy Bakeshop, a treat that’s quickly becoming a tradition. While Chris worked his coffee magic, time with the grandchildren felt extra special. Bringing them croissants from Bobby Boy is a little ritual that will hopefully become a fond memory for them. There’s something magical about sharing food you love with people you love.
It takes me back to my own childhood foodie memories—like going to Winchell’s Donut House in Los Angeles with my dad. I remember standing in front of that glass case, overwhelmed by all the choices, but always picking the same sugar donut. My dad would try to tempt me with something new, but I always stuck with my favorite. Looking back, it wasn’t really about the donut. It was about that quiet time together, just the two of us, picking out weekend treats. There aren’t any photos of those mornings at Winchell’s with my dad, but those moments are forever captured in my heart.
Now, as I watch our grandchildren enjoy their chocolate croissants (especially the ones with the little flag on top), I hope we’re creating those same kinds of memories. Someday, it won’t be about the pastries themselves, but about the moments spent with Nonnie and Poppy.
Today, my Something Good is simply being in the moment and not feeling rushed. After two very hectic years, it feels wonderful to slow down and savor these times with family. Grateful doesn’t even begin to cover it.
Post Note: A Little Winchell’s Nostalgia
Winchell’s Donut House began in 1948 when Verne Winchell opened the first shop in Temple City, California. The brand quickly became a West Coast favorite, known for its slogan “Home of the Warm ‘n Fresh Donut.” Winchell’s stood out for its round-the-clock service, fresh coffee, and an impressive selection of donuts made daily. By the 1970s and 80s, Winchell’s had grown into the world’s largest donut chain, boasting over 1,000 locations at its height. Today, just over 100 Winchell’s stores remain across six states, but the memories and traditions continue to live on.
Do you remember Winchell’s, or do you have a favorite memory of a special place like this? Head over to our substack and share your story!
Today was another day spent surrounded by family. Chris spent the morning helping our son Jordan fix his coffee grinder and get his espresso machine “dialed in”—a phrase from the coffee world that in regular terms means a perfect shot of espresso! Watching Chris share his coffee wisdom with Jordan, who’s clearly catching the coffee bug, was such a sweet sight. Even though Chris will miss the daily rhythm of the coffee world since Whittle Bird closed, moments like these remind us that his passion still has a place, especially when it brings family together.
We brought along some of our favorite pastries from Bobby Boy Bakeshop, a treat that’s quickly becoming a tradition. While Chris worked his coffee magic, time with the grandchildren felt extra special. Bringing them croissants from Bobby Boy is a little ritual that will hopefully become a fond memory for them. There’s something magical about sharing food you love with people you love.
It takes me back to my own childhood foodie memories—like going to Winchell’s Donut House in Los Angeles with my dad. I remember standing in front of that glass case, overwhelmed by all the choices, but always picking the same sugar donut. My dad would try to tempt me with something new, but I always stuck with my favorite. Looking back, it wasn’t really about the donut. It was about that quiet time together, just the two of us, picking out weekend treats. There aren’t any photos of those mornings at Winchell’s with my dad, but those moments are forever captured in my heart.
Now, as I watch our grandchildren enjoy their chocolate croissants (especially the ones with the little flag on top), I hope we’re creating those same kinds of memories. Someday, it won’t be about the pastries themselves, but about the moments spent with Nonnie and Poppy.
Today, my Something Good is simply being in the moment and not feeling rushed. After two very hectic years, it feels wonderful to slow down and savor these times with family. Grateful doesn’t even begin to cover it.
Post Note: A Little Winchell’s Nostalgia
Winchell’s Donut House began in 1948 when Verne Winchell opened the first shop in Temple City, California. The brand quickly became a West Coast favorite, known for its slogan “Home of the Warm ‘n Fresh Donut.” Winchell’s stood out for its round-the-clock service, fresh coffee, and an impressive selection of donuts made daily. By the 1970s and 80s, Winchell’s had grown into the world’s largest donut chain, boasting over 1,000 locations at its height. Today, just over 100 Winchell’s stores remain across six states, but the memories and traditions continue to live on.
Do you remember Winchell’s, or do you have a favorite memory of a special place like this? Head over to our substack and post your story!
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