Beer and Skittles, Kalamazoo, Michigan

On the Kalamazoo, Michigan portion of Mom's book tour this past March (thank you, KZOO BOOKS and Friends of Poetry!), Mom visited the recently opened Beer and Skittles store. Her special poet friend Danna works there.

I was cuddling with Grandpa back in Idaho. But Mom brought me several bumper stickers.

One of the reasons Mom loves this store so much is because of its core beliefs.

Beer and Skittles Core Beliefs:

"1. Life is short, and each small victory deserves a celebration."

I, Tootsie, declare: You know this is true. Every sit deserves a biscuit and every stay deserves a cuddle!

"2. Every small thing matters. In fact, sometimes, the smallest gesture makes the biggest impact."

I, Tootsie, declare: You know this is true. Every wag makes a difference.

"3. You don’t need to spend a fortune to live well: focus your spending on things that matter, and know where to shop."

I, Tootsie, declare: You know this is true. Mom bought treats for Grandpa, but then ate almost all the treats from Beer & Skittles on the plane ride home because everything was so yummy. She knew where to shop: at Beer and Skittles in Kalamazoo!

Mom saved one cookie for Grandpa from the package of Hail Merry Macaroons. You'll fall in love with the Hail Merry company when you read this note from her creator, Susan O'Brien.

Vegan macaroons? "Best macaroons ever," says Mom.

"Best one macaroon ever," said Grandpa after he ate his cookie.

Another reason Mom loves the Beer and Skittles store is because it was owner Christine Horton's dream to open such a store, which she did along with her co-owner husband.

Beer and Skittles is also on Facebook and posts lots of yummy food photos and eclectic beer information. This is a neat brief article about the store.

And here's a picture of me.