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"Best Key Lime Pie on the Planet", Benjamin Moore Paint, Charlottesville, food, home renovation, key lime pie, key lime pies, kitchen counter top, one woman operation, P Allen Smith, restaurants, Virginia
I quit counting. Yes! At last annual count, two-thousand of the best key lime pies on the planet have left my inspected kitchen, made by moi, a one-woman operation since 2000—the pie was introduced in 2005!
Now mind you, I never planned this occupation. However a love of food that I exploited—in order to manage contractors during a long, and often painful 6.5 year home renovation—leaves me with a small discerning following here in my hometown. These pies have traveled as far north as Maine and as far south as Georgia, lovingly tucked into coolers by guardians of my KLPie.
named by locals as The Best Key Lime Pie on the Planet…made one at a time, every time.
It seems to be the crust that hooks them first, then customers order repeatedly, and they tell their friends. I do not advertise, yet I am the first hit on Google when key lime pie—in my town—is searched.
Last July one local restaurant began carrying these pies, and they continue to be the only dessert on their menu. As of last week, weekly orders increased, taunting me with the fantasy that perhaps I can stash enough pie money to 1) take a real vacation, or 2) replace my 13 YO MPV, or 3) really retire, or 4) hire garden help.
This same restaurateur plans to open a sister eatery in DC later this year, and already inquired if I could keep up with demand. YES! Until my final breath.
My ultimate wish for this pie would be me strolling the aisles of a large kitchen, supervising the hand-made production of my pies for all to enjoy. Shipping would be perfected, where the home-made integrity is forever preserved and passed on to anyone, anywhere. Any ideas out there?
My cookbook is ready for a publisher too. Halloo!
the crusts hook them
I forever envy folks who can do ONE thing for sustainable income. During decades as an entrepreneur, I have yet to figure that one out. As a former interior designer, I got close, as projects were begun and finished—black and white—do and done. Conversely, food leads me down a path of no return. No end in sight. Halloo!
Those of you who follow my blog might like to see photos of the completed kitchen counter-top renewal. Nice huh?
completed counter-top restoration
oh so sleek and baby bottom smooth
my reward for all my effort, grilled Irish cheddar cheese with Irish butter. Yum!
Where is the Guinness???
Pro tem, I continue to continue. Currently awaiting warmer outdoor temperatures as the parrot cage, tuteurs, and numerous pieces of iron patio furniture stand in line for a new coat of paint. I will dazzle you with the color choices, thanks to Benjamin Moore and P Allen Smith.
Now when do I get my facelift?
Copyright © 2013 by Diane LaSauce All Rights Reserved
That’s very impressive Diane. Have you ever watched the “Shark Tank” TV show? Sounds like the “best key lime pie on the planet” could see a lot of doors open up to it… good luck in whichever path you take with it and thanks for visiting my site!
Perhaps Kickstarter…although I cannot imagine going into large scale production…sometimes small is nicer.
Congrats Diane! Keep on!
That is an amazing accomplishment. As they are truly the best, it makes sense they would sell so well. I know what you mean on ending a project, but cooking and baking are not like that at all. It is never ending which makes it a good occupation.
So I just have to say WOW and congrats and no surprise to me! And I feel a bit sentimental that years ago Mom and I wrote that card for you saying that your pie was best on planet–I bet others have said it too! I wonder how many of those 2000 are in my tummy?!
I’d bet the highest percent of all your grateful and happy pie eaters!
Kendra
~sent via email
I remember a poem too.
2000 pies, that’s amazing! the kitchen looks great too.
I’ve heard about these pies for years and I REALLY would love to taste them!! That grilled cheese too!
lovely & yummy – we’ll have to indulge in one of those – like your dreaming forward-
just remember-keep the passion, stay focused!
I am rendered speechless and clawing desperately at the computer screen at the sight of the Best Key Lime Pie on the Planet…Diane, remember me when you become famous and super rich one day ok!!!
Wow. You amaze me every single time!! Hugs, Sharon
Sharon, how great to have a chuckle so early in the AM! Thanks for your great comments and go right ahead and send the money truck with fame driving…;-)
I will never forget the day I received my pie… a gift of elegance, laced with
flavor beyond description. My taste buds have been spoiled for life! I now know
the meaning of the word “crave”.
If the dessert world had a president, her name would be Diane….
Life is such an amazing journey. I have been making pies this winter as a crutch to make it to spring. I will be in Charlottesville this spring so I will search out your key lime pie…
Congrats!!
oh yum, I love pie. Congrats on the success!
Looks DELICIOUS. I might have to go look in the refrigerator to see if one has magically appeared.
Yumm! Sounds delicious, next time I’m in Charlottesville I’ll have to try it! Congrats and good work!
Good for you, Diane! Just keep making those babies and who knows? one thing leads to another.
Love, Ann
~ some friends refuse to comment on the blog…
I’m close by and have yet to sample the “best key lime pie on the planet.” I’ll head over the the restaurant!
Have a slice at the Citizen Burger Bar, downtown mall, Charlottesville!
Yum! My favorite! Wish I could get one out here in Colorado~
Thanks for the thought… I have yet to figure shipping for the sake of those crispy crusts!