What products would you like to see "retired"?

[missyciccolella]

OK, we've chatted a lot about what products we would like to have, but what would lyou ike to see go?

Personally, I'd like the Salt/Pepper Mill to go...or at the very least redesigned.
The Nylon tool set, Suds Pump and self-sharpening knives can go as well.
There are many other products I'd like to see go, but I would want them re-designed/re-styled instead of 100% taken away (like the colander/bowl set).

[janetupnorth]

I've actually sold some suds pumps because the local Arbonne lady recommends the PC ones to people for stretching out the Arbonne products.

[finley1991]

Well, they only retire items based on sales...

I think we need to keep the SS Knives. If we only have the Forged in our set, we are pricing out a whole group of people that won't spend the $$ for the forged knives even if they are better. I sell a ton of both.

I'd love to see the SP Mill in stainless! I love the design, I just can't keep it clean when it sits on my stove.

How would you like them to redesign the colander/bowl set? That's interesting...

[janetupnorth]

The only 2 products I wouldn't use are the ice cream sandwich maker and the hold n slice. I've had a hold n slice for a decade and no longer use it.

[BethCooks4U]

I use my hold n slice every day! Haven't used the ice cream sandwich maker in forever though. I love the salt and pepper mill but changing the color/finish would be great.

I hate the colander set - would love to see a new one. That's the main thing I'd like changed. I'd like to see the spritzer redesigned to give guests less problems (though I have never had problems with mine).

[dianevill]

I'd like the spritzer and suds pump redesigned so that they look more modern. The ice cream sandwich maker can go, and the dessert plates (heck, maybe they are gone and I haven't noticed. I've never sold a set).

[jenniferp417]

I just bought all of the nylon tools and I really like them! I'd like the nicer tools, but until I can get them for free, they'll have to wait.

[DebbieJ]

I prefer the Nylon Tools over the Chef's Tools and would love to see them offered individually again.

[Ginger428]

I prefer the Nylon Tools over the Chef's Tools and would love to see them offered individually again.

I feel the same way! Also the new ones are not as sturdy as the old ones, also I've had quite a few women tell me the spoons are too deep....:confused:

[chefkristin]

I love the Nylon tool set. The ice cream sandwich maker can go. I have never used mine. I agree with the salt and pepper mill. I wish we had separate salt and pepper holders. I also think the wine opener should be made sturdier. I would love to see soup crocks added to the SA's.

[vwpamperedchef]

I hate the wine opener! I agree with Kristin.

The cheese bistro set doesnt really sell at all for me.

The juicer

[DebbieJ]

I think the wine bottle opener should be restyled as well.

[janetupnorth]

I'd like the spritzer and suds pump redesigned so that they look more modern. The ice cream sandwich maker can go, and the dessert plates (heck, maybe they are gone and I haven't noticed. I've never sold a set).

My old kitchen spritzer is stainless/black and I "thought" it was an old PC one...???? It's be perfect colors now...

[finley1991]

My old kitchen spritzer is stainless/black and I "thought" it was an old PC one...????

I WISH! No.... ours was never stainless.

[chefann]

This one's not a wish for retirement, but a wish for restyling - I'd like the handles on the batter bowls to change to be open on the bottom so that the bowls stack easier. I hate how much room they take up in the cupboard.

[pamperedlinda]

I feel the same way! Also the new ones are not as sturdy as the old ones, also I've had quite a few women tell me the spoons are too deep....:confused:
Ditto that! I like the new style, but they are too big for most of the pans and they fall out of them and make a mess on my stove. I do love the ladle and spoon for my large pots and my crock pot though.

[nikkijo]

The only 2 products I wouldn't use are the ice cream sandwich maker and the hold n slice. I've had a hold n slice for a decade and no longer use it.

I love the ice cream sandwich maker for making hamburgers!! I sell tons of these because of it. They make perfect 1/4 pound burgers. They also come out perfectly shaped so they cook evenly. No more dry outsides and undercooked insides.

You just need to press firmly on it when you are forming it. Works best of fresh hamburger, not unfrozen

[dollfangs]

This one's not a wish for retirement, but a wish for restyling - I'd like the handles on the batter bowls to change to be open on the bottom so that the bowls stack easier. I hate how much room they take up in the cupboard.


I whole heartedly agree!!! I have 2 classic bowls and one small one and it takes up half the cabinet

[janetupnorth]

I whole heartedly agree!!! I have 2 classic bowls and one small one and it takes up half the cabinet

Yes, I agree too! They've ALWAYS been awkward and I put my small one in my regular one and over the years it has scratched, knicked it...

[Ginger428]

Ditto that! I like the new style, but they are too big for most of the pans and they fall out of them and make a mess on my stove. I do love the ladle and spoon for my large pots and my crock pot though.

I have a friend that has a small diner & he LOVES the nylon ladle, he says the handle NEVER gets hot! So he does buy alot of stuff from me, so when he said he only wanted 4 ladles, so I ordered 4 sets gave hime the ladles for 5.00 a piece & used the rest for prizes at my shows!!;)

[rennea]

I like Ann's idea on the batter bowls, they are a pain to stack.

I think that the hold N Slice and ice cream maker can go....

I love my S&P Mill but agree SS would be great.

[chefmeg]

This one's not a wish for retirement, but a wish for restyling - I'd like the handles on the batter bowls to change to be open on the bottom so that the bowls stack easier. I hate how much room they take up in the cupboard.


AWESOME idea!

[chefkristin]

AWESOME idea!
I totally agree too!!! They do take up a lot of room. I love the bowls though!

[ChefBeckyD]

Add me to the list of those who like the nylon tools better than the newer ones.
The new ones are to large and unwieldy, and I use the old black nylon tools all the time in my own kitchen - they are just the right size!


The hold n slice, the dessert plate set, the tiles paper napkins, the ice cream sandwich maker, and the suds pump are all things I think could be discontinued without a blip on my order screen.:D

Those who don't like the bowl/colander set - why not?

[Chef Kearns]

The bowl/colander set. Well, I've seen better designed models on the market. Ones that fold flat for storage (AWESOME). Or can stretch to be perched above the sink (WAY COOL). The bowls are okay, but the sizes are so different. I don't think there is enough variety in the size of the bowls. It's either small or way big.

To go:

The APCS stand

The Corer

Pastry Blender (bring back the old model-the concept of the new one is great, but it doesn't work)

[Kitchen Diva]

I'm with Chefann- put different handles on the batter bowls. They do take up quite a bit of space.

I would like to see the handles on the chef's tools made a teeny bit shorter- they are too long to be useful. I would like to see different handles on the scrapers- The way they are designed really causes my carpal tunnel to flare up- if they could make them a bit chubbier (for lack of a better word) I would love to see the spritzer and suds pump made to look more modern- my spritzer is a bit on the leaky side, but I don't care because it is still useful.

The colander and Bowl set is cheesy- either redesign it to look like it's worth $30, or discontinue it. Sadly I don't have any idea how to improve it, but I saw something similar to this years ago at a Shopko and I thought it looked cheesy back- and the Shopko one was 1/3 of the price of ours.

Touch my Mini-whipper and you will be getting a visit from my Uncle Pauly, Uncle Dave, Uncle Johnny, Cousin Jimmy, and Cousin Mario...end of story :)

My list could go on and on, but I'll stop here for now. :) thanks for playing

[chef131doreen]

The napkins better no go ( haha )

[Grandmarita]

I've never cared for the Tiles design in our Simple Additions. The plain white and the cranberry are my favorites, and I'll admit to thinking the dots are fun for casual meals. I have not sold any of the Tiles pattern. I guess what you like is what you promote and generally sell.

[cvaccaro]

I absolutely love the S&P mill and totally agree with stainless steel. I never thought about using what I also thought was a useless sandwich maker for hamburger patties. That is a great idea. The paper napkins also are useless and how about in addition to the soup bowls some escargot dishes??
Cathy

[CookingwithMary]

Adios Cut n' Seal, and Ice Cream Sandwich maker.

Love the soap pump concept, but want it redesigned for kitchen and bath. Current model only works about a month for me, then replace mechanism. Then dead. Have tried different dishwashing liquids/hand soaps in case that was the problem.

[BethCooks4U]

Adios Cut n' Seal, and Ice Cream Sandwich maker.

Love the soap pump concept, but want it redesigned for kitchen and bath. Current model only works about a month for me, then replace mechanism. Then dead. Have tried different dishwashing liquids/hand soaps in case that was the problem.
Do you mix the water and soap before pumping? The thicker soap at the bottom usually is what causes clogging. (I mean turn it back and forth but not shake) You also have to be careful to not put too much soap in. Using the fill lines and then mixing it well works. I have a couple of them we have used for years with absolutely no problems - and it's mostly teens using them so there's no special care there once I filled them.:rolleyes:

[dianevill]

Adios Cut n' Seal.


Uhh - uhhh - you're hurting me. My kids love the Cut 'n Seal. I sell a lot of them.

[CookingwithMary]

[QUOTE=BethCooks4U]Do you mix the water and soap before pumping?

Yup, followed directions, even trying less soap to water ratio. I bought several pumps at the same time and wondered if I got a bad lot? Or the L.A. tap water :yuck:

Thanks for the care suggestions, much appreciated.

btw, :love: the oil spritzer. No problem there.

[baychef]

Do you mix the water and soap before pumping? The thicker soap at the bottom usually is what causes clogging. (I mean turn it back and forth but not shake) You also have to be careful to not put too much soap in. Using the fill lines and then mixing it well works. I have a couple of them we have used for years with absolutely no problems - and it's mostly teens using them so there's no special care there once I filled them.:rolleyes:

Use hot water too and it will mix better. They also recommend not using soap that you can not see through.

[DebbieJ]

I love my Suds Pumps! I have one at every sink in my house. It has saved me $$$$ in soap and lots of time because I don't have to clean up after my ds and dh as much. They would leave globs of soap in the sink all the time until I got these.

[pamperedlinda]

I love the suds pump too - just wish it were prettier.

[baychef]

My list of things to go:
The tile napkins
The tile pattern completely
scoop clip...unless they brought back the coffee that may people liked!
cake stencil set
Hooked on fish (probably because I do not like fish!)

Things I would like re-designed:
colander and bowl set
great ideas about the S/P shaker...no don't separate them...keep them in one unit.

Undecided about - I don't sell many if any at all, but think we should have something in our line of the quality we have:
Large Bamboo cutting board

Things I don't want to go:
Hold and slice. Hold your raw chicken or your hot chicken to cut.
And many other items too numerous to list!

[CookingwithMary]

Uhh - uhhh - you're hurting me. My kids love the Cut 'n Seal. I sell a lot of them.

Are you doing anything special in a demo to sell them? Please share :) I'm willing to change my ways :)

[crissy11]

I don't demo the cut and seal alot either but sell it by other people talking about it. I have had people to ask me about other uses for it. I done one show where the hostess wanted to use it for fried apple pies. Instead I got her to buy a can of Grands biscuits and a can of apple filling that you would use for topping on cheesecakes.. We rolled out each biscuit to 5 inches and spread the filling over half of it and not to the edges. Pulled the other half of the biscuit over and used the cut and seal to cut off any excess and crimp the rest. We then put these on a stone and baked them for 25 minutes or so. Everyone was amazed and I sold cut and seals, stones, rollers and spreaders.. Now when I am asked I tell them that recipe and sell more.
I use it at home for peanut butter sandwiches.
Crystal

[CookingwithMary]

Thanks Crystal, will dig mine out and try the pies idea :)

[dianevill]

You can do Crystal's idea with white bread, too (Wonder works well).

I usually get the moms with "it costs about a third of what the Uncrustables does. You can make your own sandwiches with the kind of peanut butter and jelly your kids like, pop them in a baggie, and freeze."

[ChefBeckyD]

I absolutely love the S&P mill and totally agree with stainless steel. I never thought about using what I also thought was a useless sandwich maker for hamburger patties. That is a great idea. The paper napkins also are useless and how about in addition to the soup bowls some escargot dishes??
Cathy


Is this a big thing in Canada? Because I'm almost 100% positive I wouldn't sell any here - I've never even seen escargot for sale, and I shop every place! (I do know what it is, at least!;) But I think that the majority of my customers would stare at me blankly.)

[pamperedlinda]

Is this a big thing in Canada? Because I'm almost 100% positive I wouldn't sell any here - I've never even seen escargot for sale, and I shop every place! (I do know what it is, at least!;) But I think that the majority of my customers would stare at me blankly.)
Not a big mover here either, although I have had it and I do like it, I'm pretty sure I'd never make it at home.

[jrstephens]

I love the make and feel of the new tools, but like the size of the older tools. I wish we had a lot of small tools like the small slotted turner, I LOVE that size. And I would love some the size of a tablespoon or two.

I would like a restyled Salt and Pepper Mill.

I have never sold a dessert plate or tile napkins. I do not think I have ever sold the dots or tiles SA. I sale the white ones.

Ice Cream sandwich maker can go.

I love the colander set too.

[Kitchen Diva]

Not a big mover here either, although I have had it and I do like it, I'm pretty sure I'd never make it at home.
I had snails once...in High School on our annual choir tour a group of friends and I went to this fancy restaurant and pooled our money together and the only thing on the menu we could afford was the escargot...the entire time I was eating it I had to keep telling myself "Don't think about snails, don't think about snails"...not bad but the texture is not my style- they are a little too rubbery for me. That could be why I don't like mushrooms. Hmmmm

[pamperedlinda]

I had snails once...in High School on our annual choir tour a group of friends and I went to this fancy restaurant and pooled our money together and the only thing on the menu we could afford was the escargot...the entire time I was eating it I had to keep telling myself "Don't think about snails, don't think about snails"...not bad but the texture is not my style- they are a little too rubbery for me. That could be why I don't like mushrooms. Hmmmm
Yeah, they are a little on the rubbery side. But the garlicy-butter sauce is to die for! Gotta have extra bread with that.

[finley1991]

Ohhhhh... escargot! My favorite! (They sell it at Meijer... look on the upper shelves!) Not sure our customers would get it though!

Whatever we get will be fabulous!!!!

[rennea]

I make escargots all the time. They are really cheap to buy here in the supermakets. If they are done right they are not rubbery. I don't know if the dishes would be a good seller or not. You can buy the dishes here at the dollar store. My dad even has shells for his that he uses, look cool.

Linda your right the butter sauce is very good. I also had them in a tomato based sauce when I was in France that was amazing.:chef:

[cpaylor]

I LOVE my colander and bowl set - use it for pasta, berries, and the bowls for salad and popcorn.
As for the ice cream sandwich maker - love it in the summer, fun to make cookies and sandwiches for dad, who is an ice cream hog - but messy too! My ds who is 4 likes to lick his fingers while making pop-pop presents. I haven't tried it for burgers, but I will.
The tile SA and napkins are fine to go with me. As are the new tools, I like the feel of them, but prefer the size of the old ones. I also think there are too many knife choices for customers, and many will choose cheaper over better quality.

[JAE]

I forget I even have the two larger parts of the colander and bowl set. I use the small colander almost daily, especially when strawberries are in season. I use the small bowl daily for my big lettuce/spinach salad.
I love the look and feel of the Chef's tools, but they do fall out of the pans because they are "handle heavy". The small slotted turner is too flimsy. I don't use my regular sized Slotted Turner. The Strainer is okay, but I think it needs to be deeper for what I would use it for. I have a really old metal strainer that is not as wide or pretty but it is deep. I like deep.
I don't like the Cut N Seal because it's not dishwasher safe and it doesn't cost enough to use in a demo.
I won't buy the PC spritzer. I have Bed Bath and Beyond stainless ones. Love them. Never had a problem with them. Get very irritated when customers bring up the problems with PC spritzers. Had Suds Pumps and gave up on those. Saved on soap but traded that for frustration. We use bar soap in the upstairs bathrooms, everyone has their won bar. They last forever. Use soap dispensers on the main floor for guests.
IMO Spoon Rest is silly, though I've sold them. Why wash a spoon rest when you can just wipe up the mess on the counter or stove? I've never understood that.
Also don't care for the Outdoor Party Plates and Utensils. Not my color and don't get why the PC is selling that stuff.
(Haven't been on in a while. Sorry for going on and on...)

[ChefBeckyD]

I forget I even have the two larger parts of the colander and bowl set. I use the small colander almost daily, especially when strawberries are in season. I use the small bowl daily for my big lettuce/spinach salad.
I love the look and feel of the Chef's tools, but they do fall out of the pans because they are "handle heavy". The small slotted turner is too flimsy. I don't use my regular sized Slotted Turner. The Strainer is okay, but I think it needs to be deeper for what I would use it for. I have a really old metal strainer that is not as wide or pretty but it is deep. I like deep.
I don't like the Cut N Seal because it's not dishwasher safe and it doesn't cost enough to use in a demo.
I won't buy the PC spritzer. I have Bed Bath and Beyond stainless ones. Love them. Never had a problem with them. Get very irritated when customers bring up the problems with PC spritzers. Had Suds Pumps and gave up on those. Saved on soap but traded that for frustration. We use bar soap in the upstairs bathrooms, everyone has their won bar. They last forever. Use soap dispensers on the main floor for guests.
IMO Spoon Rest is silly, though I've sold them. Why wash a spoon rest when you can just wipe up the mess on the counter or stove? I've never understood that.
Also don't care for the Outdoor Party Plates and Utensils. Not my color and don't get why the PC is selling that stuff.
(Haven't been on in a while. Sorry for going on and on...)


Somehow I missed this fact...mine goes in the dishwasher several times a week.

[JAE]

Is your's still shiny?
"Hand wash; rinse and dry immediately."

[Shawnna]

The paper napkins can go for sure...not practical at all. I am thinking they will be discontinued because they gave them away to hosts in November...which I thought was crappy compared to the towels they gave in December.

I wouldn't mind if the tiles SA were discontinued. I like the dots okay, but the white and cranberry are my favs.

I would like to see the salt/pepper mill redesigned as well as the egg slicer plus.

The salad/berry spinner can go...too big and bulky.

The new chef's tools are prettier, but the old style is definately more sturdy and useful.

I gave my icecream sandwich maker away to a teenager who likes to make them...I personally thought it was a stupid idea, but that is just my opinion.

I love the colander and bowl set, but would like to see an additional mid-size.

We have to keep the SS knives because not everyone likes the forged set. While they are excellent quality, they are bulky for small hands. And, not everyone can afford that set.

I would like to see the old kitchen shears back. I am not sold on the new set.

I just hope we don't get a lot of restyled stuff like we did last season. There were too many restyled products at one time.

[Jennie4PC]

My son hates it when I use the cut n seal he hates a round sandwich have no clue why.

[pamperedlinda]

My son hates it when I use the cut n seal he hates a round sandwich have no clue why.
Mine too! I thought he would love it. The first time I made him a pbj with the cut 'n seal he told me don't ever do that again. He said "mommy I don't like circle sandwiches, I like straight ones" and he was 4.....go figure!

[ChefBeckyD]

Mine too! I thought he would love it. The first time I made him a pbj with the cut 'n seal he told me don't ever do that again. He said "mommy I don't like circle sandwiches, I like straight ones" and he was 4.....go figure!


That is funny! My son has specific sandwiches he likes in different shapes. A PBJ has to always be a round sandwich - but a cheese sandwich has to be triangles. Although he like it if I make him a "pizza sandwich" with the cut n seal. A little pizza sauce, some grated cheese and some baby spinach ( yes, he loves spinach!) and then grilled.

[ChefBeckyD]

The paper napkins can go for sure...not practical at all. I am thinking they will be discontinued because they gave them away to hosts in November...which I thought was crappy compared to the towels they gave in December.

I wouldn't mind if the tiles SA were discontinued. I like the dots okay, but the white and cranberry are my favs.

I would like to see the salt/pepper mill redesigned as well as the egg slicer plus.

The salad/berry spinner can go...too big and bulky.

The new chef's tools are prettier, but the old style is definately more sturdy and useful.

I gave my icecream sandwich maker away to a teenager who likes to make them...I personally thought it was a stupid idea, but that is just my opinion.

I love the colander and bowl set, but would like to see an additional mid-size.

We have to keep the SS knives because not everyone likes the forged set. While they are excellent quality, they are bulky for small hands. And, not everyone can afford that set.

I would like to see the old kitchen shears back. I am not sold on the new set.

I just hope we don't get a lot of restyled stuff like we did last season. There were too many restyled products at one time.


I think they gave away the paper napkins because Nov. is the biggest sales/show month, and they knew that they had an endless supply of napkins to give away, without worrying about them being out of stock.:rolleyes: And maybe they thought when people saw them, they would order a ton more for the holidays! (Said with extreme sarcasm....)

[kspry]

Another vote for getting rid of the Outdoor Party Plates and Utensils. Ugly color, and people keep trying to throw away the utensils.

Grilling planks - has anyone sold any of these?

cutting board w/ measure cups - it just bugs me the way it won't dry in the dishwasher, because it's not flat on both sides

the corer

oil dipping set - why can't it be just plain white?

I actually like the tiles dishes and the paper napkins, though.

[rennea]

people keep trying to throw away the utensils. Yes everyone just thinks they are disposible. They are the same as the disposible ones at the store only different colors.


the corer Do you mean the tomato corer? I hope not I have sold a ton of these.

[Cindycooks]

ditto to what all of you said! I love the S&P Mill - we use it everyday but stainless would be so much nicer looking than the "plastic look". And I HATE the chefs tools. The pieces I have are hanging on my new potrack. They are too big for the TTA and fall out of the pots. I dont even agree taht they are prettier - I like black much more than the gray.
Great idea on the handles of the batter bowls. Mine are stacked inside each other too. That would be great!
Grilling Planks? I think I sold one set last summer. The ones I have are still in the drawer - I've never even used them!

[ChefBeckyD]

Totally forgot we even sell grilling planks!


I used them one time - they are too small, and very flimsy. Planked Whitefish is a specialty in Northern Michigan, and there are a couple restaurants I love to go to just for the Planked Whitefish with Duchess Potatoes - the plank is much longer than ours, and about an inch thick.......that's the kind of planks I would want.

[finley1991]

This discussion is fascinating! It's so interesting to see how one consultant loves a product while another hates it! Guess HO really does know what they are doing by providing so much diversity with our products!

I love my cutting board with measuring cups! It's my #2 seller after the trifle bowl! Go figure!

[kspry]

Do you mean the tomato corer? I hope not I have sold a ton of these.

The tube-shaped corer on page 29 of the catalog - it says it works on apples, but I can't ever get it to work without using something else to smack it down, so I don't hurt my hand.

Does it work well on tomatoes?

[RaggedyAunt]

I love the hamburger patty idea with the ice cream sandwich maker! That will definitely be a selling tip come warmer weather! And, honestly, I was wishing we had a patty maker, or wished I knew someone have a Tupperware party, but now I don't have to worry about it. Great tip!

I like the S&P mill, I just wish it came with a way to close the salt holes, so that if you want to travel with it, you don't get salt all over the place if it tips! It would be nice to have either something that slides over or evens clips over the top.

Happy New Year's everyone!

Tammy

[wadesgirl]

The tube-shaped corer on page 29 of the catalog - it says it works on apples, but I can't ever get it to work without using something else to smack it down, so I don't hurt my hand.

Does it work well on tomatoes?

It has other uses:
remove seeds from cucumbers (I've sold several just on this fact alone)
exchange centers of summer sausage and cheese for a nice treat
put carrots in the middle of potatos

[wadesgirl]

Okay, finally sat down and looked at a book. There are a couple items I have never really cared for that I wouldn't mind them taking out of the catalog (these are all items I've never even sold):
grilling planks
salt/pepper mill
juicer
crinkle cutter
strainer
skimmer
nylon tools (I think they look cheap and flimsy) but I do get several request from people who want them seperate again
finger guard

A couple items I think they can improve on:
old kitchen shears back
bigger strainer (possibly collapsible silicone, I bought one at the store that I'm no impressed with)

Few items they better never get rid of:
kitchen spritzer
anything on page 18 and 19
easy opener
can strainer

I really hope they do what they did last season: restyle more, get rid of less!

[Ginger428]

I love the hamburger patty idea with the ice cream sandwich maker! That will definitely be a selling tip come warmer weather! And, honestly, I was wishing we had a patty maker, or wished I knew someone have a Tupperware party, but now I don't have to worry about it. Great tip!

I like the S&P mill, I just wish it came with a way to close the salt holes, so that if you want to travel with it, you don't get salt all over the place if it tips! It would be nice to have either something that slides over or evens clips over the top.

Happy New Year's everyone!

Tammy

I use a few TTA Totes & 1 of my TTA I put the S/P Mill in the top middle & have no problem with it tipping...HTH

[almondfarm]

Okay Colleen --
Share your tips on the Cutting Board w/measuring cups - I don't think I've ever sold one - even as the host special!!!

[rennea]

The tube-shaped corer on page 29 of the catalog - it says it works on apples, but I can't ever get it to work without using something else to smack it down, so I don't hurt my hand.

Does it work well on tomatoes?


Oh that yes I'm not fond of it myself. I use the Apple Wedger instead.

[rennea]

Okay, finally sat down and looked at a book. There are a couple items I have never really cared for that I wouldn't mind them taking out of the catalog (these are all items I've never even sold):
grilling planks
salt/pepper mill
juicer
crinkle cutter
strainer
skimmernylon tools (I think they look cheap and flimsy) but I do get several request from people who want them seperate again
finger guard

I just recently got the skimmer and I LOVE it. It's great for checking your pasta, I also use it when making chicken stock. I was very surprised that I have found so many uses for it.

[wadesgirl]

I just recently got the skimmer and I LOVE it. It's great for checking your pasta, I also use it when making chicken stock. I was very surprised that I have found so many uses for it.

I have it, never used it or sold one!

[lockhartkitchen]

I've never used my icecream sandwich maker. It can go. I want the suds pump in stainless steel to go more contemporary. I've seen some classy ones in the stores.

[rennea]

I have it, never used it or sold one!

Get it out and put it in your kitchen, start using it. I know it sounds dumb but there are lots of products that I didn't use until I put them out and then I didn't forget about them. When you start using things then your more likey to talk about them, which will lead to sales:)

[MissChef]

I feel the same way! Also the new ones are not as sturdy as the old ones, also I've had quite a few women tell me the spoons are too deep....:confused:
I do understand this! I could for 4 and 2 are kids. I like the spoon in the nylon tool set, it is the perfect size and because the chef's tools are so big they always fall out of my pots and I've messed up a few shirts and had to clean up my floor far more than I'd like to admit!:grumpy: I'd like to see the nylon tools sold individually again too! Plus the nylon tools is the only one that has a fork too! And I like the fork!

[wadesgirl]

Get it out and put it in your kitchen, start using it. I know it sounds dumb but there are lots of products that I didn't use until I put them out and then I didn't forget about them. When you start using things then your more likey to talk about them, which will lead to sales:)

I should do that, it's been in my kit since September when it was a part of the host special.

[MissChef]

I hate the wine opener! I agree with Kristin.

The cheese bistro set doesnt really sell at all for me.

The juicer
The wine opener is really good if used right! My hubby likes it a lot but I struggle with it too! He was trying to teach me on Christmas, but I haven't got wine since that had a cork! I like the idea of the foil cutter.

The juicer can go! Who needs it with that awesome citrus press!:love:

[MissChef]

Another vote for getting rid of the Outdoor Party Plates and Utensils. Ugly color, and people keep trying to throw away the utensils.

Grilling planks - has anyone sold any of these?

cutting board w/ measure cups - it just bugs me the way it won't dry in the dishwasher, because it's not flat on both sides

the corer

oil dipping set - why can't it be just plain white?

I actually like the tiles dishes and the paper napkins, though.

I was just thinking about this, (oil dipping set) i don't like the design, I wouldn't mind clear either! More small dishes need to come with it too! We do bread, oil and parmesan cheese, and roasted garlic! I'd like small dishes for the cheese and garlic, they can even share the same dish but I think more dishes are needed. And I really don't like the design at all!

I like the idea of the cutting board but I always manage to grab the side with the cups and they pop out and I spill them on the floor which now has resulted in me breaking one of the tabs on the cups!:grumpy:

I use the corer every day! for my kids's apples. My daughter will eat her whole apple if the core is gone, but when it's there, she doesn't eat enough of her apple and I hate waste!:rolleyes:

Grilling planks.... I haven't sold them but I love them!! I got my son to like salmon because of the smoked taste! I bet they will be discontinued soon, and I will have to buy a bunch before they do!

I think the idea of the Outdoor party plates are great but are not strong enough, and I agree, the colors are awful! I like the utensils for my hubby's lunches, the knives cut well. And I like that they snap together!

Can't stand the tiles and the napkins, haven't sold one!

scoop clip can go!

I detest the cut and seal!

I'm torn about the ss knives. because they suck! But I understand the need for knives with a better price range. Wish they weren't getting rid of the professional cookware for this reason!

I need the a/p/c/s stand or I'll never use my a/p/c/s!

I don't like the new julienne peeler, I like the old one better.

My mix N chop, mix N masher, drainer, and strainer, well you'd have to pry them out of my cold dead hands if you want to get those from me! LOL!:eek: :D

[MissChef]

BTW, I just got the gravy seperator after Thanksgiving and before Christmas. I used it the other day and for the first time in a very long time, I was able to eat gravy and not feel sick with stomach pain! It truly was the fat that always made me ill! I'm so excited to be able to enjoy gravy again!

The cookie press is another questionable thing, I think a redesign with the ability to get the cookie out better would be great!

[kspry]

always manage to grab the side the with the cups and they pop out and I spill them on the floor

Now that you mention it, this always happens to me, too. Another reason I don't like it!

I like the idea of the grilling planks, and the video on CC shows some good ideas. They are just WAY too expensive.

I got tired of fishing the plastic utensils out of the trash and gave them away, except for one set to show customers. Maybe if they were opaque like the plates, people wouldn't toss them...I'd rather have red, white & blue for summer stuff like that.

[MissChef]

I got tired of fishing the plastic utensils out of the trash and gave them away, except for one set to show customers. Maybe if they were opaque like the plates, people wouldn't toss them...I'd rather have red, white & blue for summer stuff like that.
Red white and blue is a great idea!!! I'd send that in to PC and a product recomendation! I bet people would buy them more like that, and the plates too but make them stronger at the same time!;)

[ChefBeckyD]

The wine opener is really good if used right! My hubby likes it a lot but I struggle with it too! He was trying to teach me on Christmas, but I haven't got wine since that had a cork! I like the idea of the foil cutter.

The juicer can go! Who needs it with that awesome citrus press!:love:

I do - can't juice grapefuit or really large oranges with the citrus press!;)

[chefann]

We just need a jumbo citrus press! :)

[PCGINA]

Thanks Crystal, will dig mine out and try the pies idea :)


Ditto That!!! Great info!!

[MissChef]

I do - can't juice grapefuit or really large oranges with the citrus press!;)
Okay, Okay, I guess it would be needed for that! I just don't do grapefruit!:rolleyes:

[cpaylor]

DH drag races, so I love the plates and utensils for the track. We are the only ones that use them so I don't have to worry about them being thrown away. They are great b/c we have a 4yr old and he can make a mess with regular paper plates, plus the utensils all stay together until we use them. When we are done I dump them in the empty food cooler to bring home to wash. I wouldn't mind different colors though. I like the red, white, and blue theme. I think more people would consider buying them if they were a better color.

[ChefBeckyD]

I must be the only one who likes the colors of the plates and utensils...and I love using them! They are great for picnics, and camping, and I love to throw the utensils in DH's lunch. I never have to think about what cutlery I need to put in there, I just grab a set and toss it in. He likes them too, because they are sturdy, and the knife is actually pretty sharp. Actually, 2 of the nurses he works with have ordered sets of them, because they've seen his at work, and liked them so well.

[MissChef]

I must be the only one who likes the colors of the plates and utensils...and I love using them! They are great for picnics, and camping, and I love to throw the utensils in DH's lunch. I never have to think about what cutlery I need to put in there, I just grab a set and toss it in. He likes them too, because they are sturdy, and the knife is actually pretty sharp. Actually, 2 of the nurses he works with have ordered sets of them, because they've seen his at work, and liked them so well.
This is exactly what I posted earlier! So, I'm with you there, girl! When we first got them my husband was out of town a lot and he was staying in a hotel that had a small refrigerator and I sent a few pre-made meals for him and his co-worker along with a few sets of those utensils and they loved them! and they were easy to clean and store for them! :thumbup:

[ChefBeckyD]

This is exactly what I posted earlier! So, I'm with you there, girl! When we first got them my husband was out of town a lot and he was staying in a hotel that had a small refrigerator and I sent a few pre-made meals for him and his co-worker along with a few sets of those utensils and they loved them! and they were easy to clean and store for them! :thumbup:

Well, you know what they say about great minds.....;)

Somehow I missed your post earlier about them - I just kept reading the post from people not liking them! I do have to say though, that I haven't sold that many of them. BUT I've sold more of those than I have Tiles Napkins or Dessert Plates!:D

[Addie4TLC]

I prefer the Nylon Tools over the Chef's Tools and would love to see them offered individually again.
I'm notorious for leaving the CTools in the pan and since they are "handle" heavy they always fall on the floor making a BIG mess. :(

[Addie4TLC]

Guess I should have read all the way through the thread as my "handle" heavy observation was already mentioned. :) Okay so how about we pick the 5 most mentioned ideas and write them down at leadership, if each of us does this they will see the demand! LOVED the redesigned batter bowl idea I'm going to jot that one down.

[missyciccolella]

Well, they only retire items based on sales...

I think we need to keep the SS Knives. If we only have the Forged in our set, we are pricing out a whole group of people that won't spend the $$ for the forged knives even if they are better. I sell a ton of both.

I'd love to see the SP Mill in stainless! I love the design, I just can't keep it clean when it sits on my stove.

How would you like them to redesign the colander/bowl set? That's interesting...

Sorry! I had some out of town company...

I would pitch the SS knives and replace with color coated ones. I hear more complaints about the SS knives from folks that have had them for a while. I really love the color coated ones...really sharp, reasonable, and trendy.

I don't like the pepper grinder of the mill...IMO, it doesn't work very well (we use a lot of fresh ground pepper so the constant squeezing gets old, and mine tends to clog - may be a personal problem, and no I don't use it over hot pots/pans). I wouldn't mind seeing a sea salt grinder in the pantry though - I buy a huge one Costco and I love it!

I would like to see SS colanders. My white ones are stained, and one cracked (thanks to the 2 yr old:angel: ). My DH is Italian so we eat a lot of pasta and I really prefer the SS colander to the PC ones, but the little PC one is an awesome size.

[MissChef]

Sorry! I had some out of town company...

I would pitch the SS knives and replace with color coated ones. I hear more complaints about the SS knives from folks that have had them for a while. I really love the color coated ones...really sharp, reasonable, and trendy.

I don't like the pepper grinder of the mill...IMO, it doesn't work very well (we use a lot of fresh ground pepper so the constant squeezing gets old, and mine tends to clog - may be a personal problem, and no I don't use it over hot pots/pans). I wouldn't mind seeing a sea salt grinder in the pantry though - I buy a huge one Costco and I love it!

I would like to see SS colanders. My white ones are stained, and one cracked (thanks to the 2 yr old:angel: ). My DH is Italian so we eat a lot of pasta and I really prefer the SS colander to the PC ones, but the little PC one is an awesome size.
Really? I could never guess that by your last name!!!!????!!!!:p ;) :D :angel: :balloon:

[missyciccolella]

Ha, Ha Cathy! Now the test...can you pronounce it?! LOL

[chefann]

Chee-ko-LELL-ah

Am I right?

[missyciccolella]

Chee-ko-LELL-ah

Am I right?
I'll take it! :D More of a "Chick" sound though...Chick-o-lell-ah (DH's nickname is Cicc pronounced "Chick" and I used to refer to myself as "Cicc's Chick")

I'm impressed as many people (mainly telemarkers) call for Mrs. "Sick-o-lell-ah" or "Sick-o-lay-lay" :)

Ann, you get an "A" in Italian Phonics :D

[chefann]

I'll 'fess up. I had Diction for Singers in college, and we discussed Italian pronunciation rules. :)

[MissChef]

Ha, Ha Cathy! Now the test...can you pronounce it?! LOL
I'm glad Ann took a stab at it before me! I might have murdered it!!! I never said I could say it but I could definetley tell it was Italian! I know a lot of Italian people!
I'll tell you what, people that call you up and murder your name, or anyone calling out your name, just tick me off!:mad: :grumpy: My feelings are, just ask how to say it, like "Cathy M., how do you pronounce your last name, so that I may say it right?"!! My last name is not long and hard but some of the ways people have pronounced it leave me with the:confused: look on my face! (Meacham, Meachan, Mean!!, Mee-aaaa, Meeeeeehhhhhaaan.... just absurd creations!

The "h" is silent. Mee-an, when my hubby and I got together he said to me, "just say me and you but leave off the 'd' and the 'you'!" LOL!:D :p :D
Half the time people make it sound like I'm chinese or they pronounce the "h" so dramatically they sound drunk!:yuck: :grumpy: :rolleyes:

[missyciccolella]

I'll 'fess up. I had Diction for Singers in college, and we discussed Italian pronunciation rules. :)
Are you serious?! You can tell that I don't have a musical bone in my body...my kids ask me not to sing! :eek:

Well, obviously you paid attention...your professor would be proud. :D

[missyciccolella]

My last name is not long and hard but some of the ways people have pronounced it leave me with the:confused: look on my face! (Meacham, Meachan, Mean!!, Mee-aaaa, Meeeeeehhhhhaaan.... just absurd creations!
I hope you're not a teacher...as the kids would have a hay day with "Mrs Mean" ...I can hear the nicknames now! :angel:

[chefsteph07]

I don't know if anyone knows this yet, but I called for a replacement part for self sharpening knives and they don't carry the sharpener anymore for any of the knives, so I wonder if those are going to go?

I cannot believe those of you who don't like the cutting board w/ cups! I LOVE that cutting board, it is my fave and I also take it to EVERY show and sell at LEAST one!

I agree about the napkins, never sold one...thought those might be dc for fall/winter, but oh well..

My list of nonsellers:
dessert plates
oil dipping set
grill planks
juicer
herb keeper (have not sold ONE and I think TW makes one too)
coffee clip (why dc the coffee and tea the same season they bring THIS out?)
funnels
finger guard
plate art and stencil set
pizza crust mix

Also, I heard you are not supposed to use the ice cream sandwich maker on raw hamburger due to bacteria? That's why I've never used it and it's still in the box, so that can defintely go too!

[kspry]

Nooooo.....don't take away the funnels! I use them a lot! I set them by my outdoor stuff as a centerpiece!

(Just kidding. New color would be nice on the funnels, though. I do use them, and have sold them.)


Now that you mention it, the herb keeper & coffee clip are good candidates.

[dannyzmom]

I don't know if anyone knows this yet, but I called for a replacement part for self sharpening knives and they don't carry the sharpener anymore for any of the knives, so I wonder if those are going to go?

I cannot believe those of you who don't like the cutting board w/ cups! I LOVE that cutting board, it is my fave and I also take it to EVERY show and sell at LEAST one!

I agree about the napkins, never sold one...thought those might be dc for fall/winter, but oh well..

My list of nonsellers:
dessert plates
oil dipping set
grill planks
juicer
herb keeper (have not sold ONE and I think TW makes one too)
coffee clip (why dc the coffee and tea the same season they bring THIS out?)
funnels
finger guard
plate art and stencil set
pizza crust mix

Also, I heard you are not supposed to use the ice cream sandwich maker on raw hamburger due to bacteria? That's why I've never used it and it's still in the box, so that can defintely go too!

Of your list above, I sell quite a few of the following:
Oil Dipping Set
Herb Keeper
Coffee Clip
Funnels
Finger Guard

It's funny how different things sell in different areas!!

[dianevill]

I don't know if anyone knows this yet, but I called for a replacement part for self sharpening knives and they don't carry the sharpener anymore for any of the knives, so I wonder if those are going to go?



I needed to order a replacement case because one of my customers' broke; when I called, the rep said because the knife was under lifetime warranty, so was the case, so my customer got a new knife and case. The rep said it was always like that, but for some reason I seem to recall that we could order just the case at some point in time.

[dannyzmom]

I'm glad Ann took a stab at it before me! I might have murdered it!!! I never said I could say it but I could definetley tell it was Italian! I know a lot of Italian people!
I'll tell you what, people that call you up and murder your name, or anyone calling out your name, just tick me off!:mad: :grumpy: My feelings are, just ask how to say it, like "Cathy M., how do you pronounce your last name, so that I may say it right?"!! My last name is not long and hard but some of the ways people have pronounced it leave me with the:confused: look on my face! (Meacham, Meachan, Mean!!, Mee-aaaa, Meeeeeehhhhhaaan.... just absurd creations!

The "h" is silent. Mee-an, when my hubby and I got together he said to me, "just say me and you but leave off the 'd' and the 'you'!" LOL!:D :p :D
Half the time people make it sound like I'm chinese or they pronounce the "h" so dramatically they sound drunk!:yuck: :grumpy: :rolleyes:


Ok - so how many of you can pronounce MY last name without butchering it???
Any takers?

[dianevill]

I figured it was like "Cram".

[Christ Follower]

I love the Pizza crust! That can't go!

I vote for a redesigned sppon rest for our over-sized kitchen tools.

I have never sold an oil dipping set, funnels, grilling planks or tile napkins.

[chefsteph07]

I needed to order a replacement case because one of my customers' broke; when I called, the rep said because the knife was under lifetime warranty, so was the case, so my customer got a new knife and case. The rep said it was always like that, but for some reason I seem to recall that we could order just the case at some point in time.

My customer put her sharpening case in the dishwasher and threw it away and just thought she could order a new one...when I called, they said they needed it and then couldn't find her in the system and HO said they don't just carry the sharpening case, which I think is weird.

[MissChef]

Ok - so how many of you can pronounce MY last name without butchering it???
Any takers?
yikes!!!! Like I said, I would ask and then say it!!! Is your "h" silent? Krae-am, I don't think it's cram???:confused: :confused:
Okay.... give it to us....!!! But like I said, I would never guess and murder it, I'd be straight forward and ask! But that's just me.... I'm not very shy and I'm very straight forward. If I don't know, I ask! I think it's stupid when people fret or dwell over things. I just ask, and trust me, we are not lost often, because my husband know, I'll ask, I don't care.... I'd rather ask... then look stupid!:D

[MissChef]

I love the Pizza crust! That can't go!

I vote for a redesigned sppon rest for our over-sized kitchen tools.

I have never sold an oil dipping set, funnels, grilling planks or tile napkins.
I LOVE THE PIZZA CRUST!!! It's a tradition here on Christmas, I make the Giant Cinnamon Rolls and I would be disowned if I didn't! Our pizza crust makes it so easy!!! I also make a lot of pizza too!

[jrstephens]

Ok - so how many of you can pronounce MY last name without butchering it???
Any takers?

Let me see if I can type what I mean. I say silent "h" but with the K sounding really like a "K" and not like a "C". I am thinking the "am" is a long "am" kind of like the "om" on prom. Krom, maybe. Did I totally kill it?!

[dianevill]

yikes!!!! Like I said, I would ask and then say it!!! Is your "h" silent? Krae-am, I don't think it's cram???:confused: :confused:
Okay.... give it to us....!!! But like I said, I would never guess and murder it, I'd be straight forward and ask! But that's just me.... I'm not very shy and I'm very straight forward. If I don't know, I ask! I think it's stupid when people fret or dwell over things. I just ask, and trust me, we are not lost often, because my husband know, I'll ask, I don't care.... I'd rather ask... then look stupid!:D

I've had sooo many people not even bother trying to pronounce my name, and it really is easy (now that we have a Milwaukee Brewers player with the same name, it's not as bad). It's kind of fun to listen to people butcher it; heck, my own mother can't pronounce it!

[dannyzmom]

I figured it was like "Cram".

Yeah, so did I when I first met him and saw his last name written down and I was like "Well, I'm not gonna marry this one!"

[MissChef]

I've had sooo many people not even bother trying to pronounce my name, and it really is easy (now that we have a Milwaukee Brewers player with the same name, it's not as bad). It's kind of fun to listen to people butcher it; heck, my own mother can't pronounce it!
I had a friend in high school with your last name so it's not hard for me!
People are just funny!:p ;)

[dianevill]

Yeah, so did I when I first met him and saw his last name written down and I was like "Well, I'm not gonna marry this one!"

LOL - better than a lot of other last names, though!

[MissChef]

Yeah, so did I when I first met him and saw his last name written down and I was like "Well, I'm not gonna marry this one!"
Okay, sooooo.... are you going to tell us..? By the way, I posted you a funny message in your "infected ear" thread!!! :yuck: :p :D

[dannyzmom]

I've had sooo many people not even bother trying to pronounce my name, and it really is easy (now that we have a Milwaukee Brewers player with the same name, it's not as bad). It's kind of fun to listen to people butcher it; heck, my own mother can't pronounce it!

See...here in South Florida, Villanueva's are a dime a dozen - LOL

[dianevill]

See...here in South Florida, Villanueva's are a dime a dozen - LOL

Not so much here in Wisconsin! LOL!

DH is originally from California...

[dannyzmom]

yikes!!!! Like I said, I would ask and then say it!!! Is your "h" silent? Krae-am, I don't think it's cram???:confused: :confused:
Okay.... give it to us....!!! But like I said, I would never guess and murder it, I'd be straight forward and ask! But that's just me.... I'm not very shy and I'm very straight forward. If I don't know, I ask! I think it's stupid when people fret or dwell over things. I just ask, and trust me, we are not lost often, because my husband know, I'll ask, I don't care.... I'd rather ask... then look stupid!:D

You got it - Kraham is pronounced much the same way Meehan is. It comes out like KRAY-um
I can't tell you how many peope say "Kru-HAM" or just stumble all over it and finally say "Ma'am?" LOL

[dianevill]

That's kind of a mouthful - Carolyn Kray-um.

[dianevill]

See...here in South Florida, Villanueva's are a dime a dozen - LOL

My daughter's friend calls me Mrs. Vanillawava. It's too funny to correct!

[dannyzmom]

Let me see if I can type what I mean. I say silent "h" but with the K sounding really like a "K" and not like a "C". I am thinking the "am" is a long "am" kind of like the "om" on prom. Krom, maybe. Did I totally kill it?!

Yep you did - LOL

[dannyzmom]

That's kind of a mouthful - Carolyn Kray-um.

It took me a while to accept it - LOL
When DH and I started talking marriage I asked him if he'd mind if I kept my ex-DH's last name (so my kids & I would have the same name:rolleyes: )...That didn't go over so well...:o But...here I am...a Kray-um. Good thing I really like the guy or I'd be all huffy about having a tough last name. I thought for sure that HO would KILL it when they announced me across stage but somehow they go it perfect. I don't know how they do it. They have some really challenging names to deal with !

[wadesgirl]

I just have to add I have a normal, every day word as my last name but do you think people can either pronounce it or spell it????!!!! This is like a word you learn in 2nd grade. Sorry, I'm not to privy on giving out my name online but think if you had the last name Hall and someone was always mispronoucing it and misspelling it?! I went from a simple last name that no one had a problem with to this last name when I got married. Didn't think there would be a problem!

By the way, you cannot take the funnels away! I have sold a couple but I use mine all the time in the kitchen.

[chefann]

Carolyn- you're like Graham cracker, but with a K! :)

Any takers on pronouncing mine? (No fair, those of you who already know how!)
Szwarc

Someone in college asked if I was going to hyphenate when I got married. I told them, sorry, I'd have 2 Z'z in my name, and they wouldn't be next to each other.

[Gina M]

I have to say I'm lucky - my last name is Miller and I never have to spell it and people never mispronounce it - however I did marry a John Miller and there are a ton of them out there!

[ChefBeckyD]

Okay - I think my last name is easy, but it gets screwed up by telemarketers all the time - that's how we know who they are! If they call, and can't pronounce our last name, we know!

It's Deemter - so how do you pronounce it?



I was THRILLED to drop my maiden name, and NO WAY would I hypenate it!

My maiden name was Sober.

[Christ Follower]

I have to say I'm lucky - my last name is Miller and I never have to spell it and people never mispronounce it - however I did marry a John Miller and there are a ton of them out there!
HA HA I married a John Hill, the other "common" name out there. I used to be Corbo and that, as easy as it is to pronounce, was often butchered.

[chefsteph07]

Okay - I think my last name is easy, but it gets screwed up by telemarketers all the time - that's how we know who they are! If they call, and can't pronounce our last name, we know!

It's Deemter - so how do you pronounce it?



I was THRILLED to drop my maiden name, and NO WAY would I hypenate it!

My maiden name was Sober.

OH man, how I'm sure you heard it while you were a teen!!! How funny! NOT! I feel for you!!!
My maiden name is Reinders and my married name is Scavnicky! LOL I don't know if I traded up or down w/ that one! ha ha

[Jennie4PC]

people will butcher my last name also its kind of funny to hear them

[Shawnna]

Names are hard. I hate that nobody ever spells my name correctly...even my inlaws and my biological grandmother misspell it. Shawnna is not that hard, but it often comes out Shawana, Shawanna, Shanna, Shana, Shawna, and even Shonda. My last name is now Nixon and while it is never mispronounced, it is often mispelled...Nickson and even Nixson. You just never can tell with names...LOL

[Jennie4PC]

My first name gets spelled wrong all the time Jenny instead of Jennie but I have gotten used to it since I have had to deal with it my whole life

[wadesgirl]

Names are hard. I hate that nobody ever spells my name correctly...even my inlaws and my biological grandmother misspell it. Shawnna is not that hard, but it often comes out Shawana, Shawanna, Shanna, Shana, Shawna, and even Shonda. My last name is now Nixon and while it is never mispronounced, it is often mispelled...Nickson and even Nixson. You just never can tell with names...LOL

My sister decided to spell my neice's name a little different. She's 14 now and hates her name because of it. Grandmas, Aunts (except me!), Uncles, you name it, they can never spell her name right!

[mrssyvo]

I named my daughter Nycole (pronounced like nicole) but I wanted something that looked stronger. When she was a child, she did not like it, because you could never find things with her name on it. She is now 25, and loves it, because it is different, but not TOO different. Her friends in college called her everything from Ny-quil to Nickel, and those names have stuck.

[Kodeysmom]

My name is Freedom so you can imgaine everything i get from that!!. I hated it growing up -you know how anyhting different is not good when your a kid!! I now love my name and means so much to me.
I have one DS and his name is Kodey. We had decided on the name pretty quickly but it was my choice on the spelling. I just wanted him to be different then Cody. (All this after i grew up hating being different :) )

[ChefBeckyD]

We wanted our son's name to be different - but not so different that he would be teased. We also wanted it to have meaning. (DH's given name is Ricky - he hates it, and is just called Rick now, but he also gets listed as Richard alot, which he also dislikes).

We were going to name him Jacob, until we found out that it was the most common boys name for several years in a row. So, we agreed on Micah. NOT Michael, or Mike, or Mikey.....it's Micah! (can you tell I am a bit touchy about people not calling him by his given name?:rolleyes: )

[wadesgirl]

We wanted our son's name to be different - but not so different that he would be teased. We also wanted it to have meaning. (DH's given name is Ricky - he hates it, and is just called Rick now, but he also gets listed as Richard alot, which he also dislikes).

We were going to name him Jacob, until we found out that it was the most common boys name for several years in a row. So, we agreed on Micah. NOT Michael, or Mike, or Mikey.....it's Micah! (can you tell I am a bit touchy about people not calling him by his given name?:rolleyes: )

I had a coworker like that. His name is Michael, not Mike! My mother threw a fit when my brother when by a shortened name because that's not what she named him!

[chefann]

this thread has been HiBARed!
(Hijacked Beyond All Recognition)

[cheflsg]

The tube-shaped corer on page 29 of the catalog - it says it works on apples, but I can't ever get it to work without using something else to smack it down, so I don't hurt my hand.

Does it work well on tomatoes?
I use it on cucumbers. My husband does not like the seeds.

[cheflsg]

Also, I would get rid of the following:

herb keeper
8 qt stainless (i never use it)
finger guard
hold n slice (don't need to carry 2)
mix n masher - I like the concept but it is not really strong enough in my opinion
turkey basics cards
tiles paper napkins



redesign

small bamboo tongs. I do not like the new small tongs and they are more expensive. I have so many customers asking for the old tongs back that had the grips at the end to more securely hold the food. These new tongs are slick and things slip off of them!

ice cream dipper - I would like this to be more round like the stainless scoops.

Oh yeah, one more thing to get rid of - Twixit clips (just kidding!)

[wadesgirl]

Also, I would get rid of the following:

herb keeper
8 qt stainless (i never use it)
finger guard
hold n slice (don't need to carry 2)
mix n masher - I like the concept but it is not really strong enough in my opinion
turkey basics cards
tiles paper napkins



redesign

small bamboo tongs. I do not like the new small tongs and they are more expensive. I have so many customers asking for the old tongs back that had the grips at the end to more securely hold the food. These new tongs are slick and things slip off of them!

ice cream dipper - I would like this to be more round like the stainless scoops.

Oh yeah, one more thing to get rid of - Twixit clips (just kidding!)

On the herb keeper, I love mine but I've never sold any. Why??? Because both of them are always in my fridge with stuff in them! So I never talk about them.

The ice cream dipper is better the way it's shaped because the edge can cut the ice cream better.

[JAE]

Love the juicer and it is good for oranges because many oranges are too big for the press. Love the press, and no room for a bigger one.

[pamperedtara]

PLEASE BRING BACK THE COFFEE!!! :cry: :cry:

[Paula R. Lewis]

Well, I gotta say, I couldn't imagine being without my Corer!! I put cored apples in my kids' lunches almost every day, thanks to that thing!!!!
If you're having trouble using it, here's my own little "trick"...insert the corer about halfway into the apple, then bring it back out. Repeat the process on the other side. It works much better this way, especially on the harder apples.

I also appreciate the fact that I can core myself an apple on the way out the door, getting rid of the "trash" before leaving the house. Then, I can eat the rest of it on my way to do errands, hence getting in one of those "fruit servings" I never quite seem to get enough of!! lol

I also use it for cucumbers, but we even like it to core plums, too. You do lose a small amount of the fruit, but it's just so convenient for packing those lunches!!!


To go...
The complete Tiles line...I was actually a fan of the striped!!

Suds pump...needed to go a long time ago!
Hand lotion/soap...don't sell enough to warrant a spot in the catalog!

Bamboo carving board...a total waste, in my opinion!!! Can't use it as an actual "cutting board", even though it's made to look like one...what's the point? After use, it is full of little white knicks...I'll stick to my regular cutting boards/simple additions platters to serve my meats!!


Paula

[climbercanoe3]

Paula how do you keep the apples from turning brown? I have tried the lemon juice on them and my daughter seems to say it tastes funny! Since the are so rushed at lunch at school. I was thinking it would be easier for her to eat it all if the core was already gone.

[Shawnna]

I never thought about coring apples for lunch...not sure they wouldn't turn brown and be left in the lunch box. As for lemon juice, I use Sprite or 7-Up. It does the same as lemon juice, but without the sour taste.

[CookingwithMary]

Paula how do you keep the apples from turning brown? I have tried the lemon juice on them and my daughter seems to say it tastes funny! Since the are so rushed at lunch at school. I was thinking it would be easier for her to eat it all if the core was already gone.

Granny Smith variety are the least likely to oxidize/brown :)

[Paula R. Lewis]

To be honest with you, I don't do anything. I mean, when you just eat an apple, the inside will be turning a little brown before you finish it anyway, right?
Well, the apple does turn a little brown, I suppose, but it's only in the middle, so it's looking just like it normally would by the time you "get to it"...know what I mean?

Hope this helps! Giving moms the idea for preparing lunches, as well as selling it as teacher gifts has helped me sell a ton of them!!

Best wishes,
Paula

[smspamperedchef]

PLEASE BRING BACK THE COFFEE!!! :cry: :cry:
AND the TEA!!! Love the tea. I bought some on the Outlet a while back. Still have some and i's still good!!!

[MissChef]

I never thought about coring apples for lunch...not sure they wouldn't turn brown and be left in the lunch box. As for lemon juice, I use Sprite or 7-Up. It does the same as lemon juice, but without the sour taste.
I always brush a little lemon juice on my kids apple and they always say they don't taste it and that it's not brown. One idea that that my original director/recruiter use to tell me she did was to use the apple wedger but don't do it all the way and then pull the wedger off and put peices back up into the whole apple shape and wrap a clean rubber band around it. She says it works perfectly. I've never done it because I never have a "clean" rubberband!:rolleyes: ;) :)

[MissChef]

AND the TEA!!! Love the tea. I bought some on the Outlet a while back. Still have some and i's still good!!!
I love it too! Have you ever brewed it and turned it into iced tea? If you haven't, do so! It's so yummy!:thumbup: :balloon:

[ChefBeckyD]

I always brush a little lemon juice on my kids apple and they always say they don't taste it and that it's not brown. One idea that that my original director/recruiter use to tell me she did was to use the apple wedger but don't do it all the way and then pull the wedger off and put peices back up into the whole apple shape and wrap a clean rubber band around it. She says it works perfectly. I've never done it because I never have a "clean" rubberband!:rolleyes: ;) :)

I do this all the time for DH's lunch - instead of a rubber band, I just wrap it tight in Saran Wrap. We are big lovers of apples w/ peanut butter, and this makes it so easy for him to take it in his lunch. There is never any problem with the apple browning.

[MissChef]

I do this all the time for DH's lunch - instead of a rubber band, I just wrap it tight in Saran Wrap. We are big lovers of apples w/ peanut butter, and this makes it so easy for him to take it in his lunch. There is never any problem with the apple browning.
Us too! Have you ever made any of the peanut butter dips that are in a few of our cookbooks? The one in the old Kids In the Kitchen Cookbook is really good! My Husband use to think we were crazy, the kids and I, until about 2 months ago, he went ahead and tried it, and ate 2 apples and finished off the dip! Most of the time I'd make it and the kids and I would have extra for later, well not anymore, my husband loved it!

Becky, the more I read about you, the more I realize we are a lot alike! I look forward to looking on threads that I've posted on to see if you have too because a lot of times you'll respond to me and we have very simular opinions and/or do the same things! Like you said before... what they say about great minds.....:p :D ;)

[MissChef]

Oh and thanks Becky for the tip about the saran wrap, I think I'll try it! I bought some of that Press and Seal stuff when it was on sale before the holidays and I'm in love with that stuff! :love: :love: Have you tried it?

[stayinathomemama]

Another thing that you can do to keep apples from turning brown is to wash the flesh of the apple after you slice it. Adds no flavor yet keeps the apple from turning brown. Just use cold water and rub it with your hands. I know it sounds crazy, but try it, you'll be amazed. I would think that it would even work if you cored your apple and then rinsed it and rub your finger down in the cavity. You can actually feel a little "slime" on the apple being rinsed off when you do it.

Livin' in apple country,

[climbercanoe3]

Thanks ladies, for all the great ideas.
My daughter loves apples for lunch. I usually wash and send it in whole and she eats it that way. I am always looking for new ideas for her lunch. She also loves apples and peanut butter. If I cut up the apple and put it in her lunch they would turn brown so I will try one of these ideas.
Thanks again!

[ChefBeckyD]

Oh and thanks Becky for the tip about the saran wrap, I think I'll try it! I bought some of that Press and Seal stuff when it was on sale before the holidays and I'm in love with that stuff! :love: :love: Have you tried it?


My Mom, and my MIL both LOVE press n seal - and I tried to, but ended up giving mine to my mom. It's probably because I am hopelessly uncoordinated, and it kept sticking everywhere but where it was supposed to.......I ended up always wading it into little balls, and then pulling out my Saran Wrap (and the only plastic wrap I like is the Saran Wrap Premium - it's thicker!:D )


And Cathy, our very favorite Peanut Butter Dip is called Amish Peanut Butter. We had it first at a weekend getaway in Indiana Amish Country, and it is addictive! it's 1 Cup Peanut Butter, 1 Cup Maple Syrup, and 1/2 Cup Marshmallow Cream.....yummy! We love it on apples, celery, toast, ice cream, even just on a spoon!

[MissChef]

My Mom, and my MIL both LOVE press n seal - and I tried to, but ended up giving mine to my mom. It's probably because I am hopelessly uncoordinated, and it kept sticking everywhere but where it was supposed to.......I ended up always wading it into little balls, and then pulling out my Saran Wrap (and the only plastic wrap I like is the Saran Wrap Premium - it's thicker!:D )


And Cathy, our very favorite Peanut Butter Dip is called Amish Peanut Butter. We had it first at a weekend getaway in Indiana Amish Country, and it is addictive! it's 1 Cup Peanut Butter, 1 Cup Maple Syrup, and 1/2 Cup Marshmallow Cream.....yummy! We love it on apples, celery, toast, ice cream, even just on a spoon!
Shoot! That's the best way!!! :p I'll have to try your recipe! Thanks!:)

[Chefstover2]

Am I the only one that's not loving the new kitchen shears? Too weak of a spring and my blades don't close all the way!!

BTW, I send my daughter to school with the apple cut almost all the way from the Apple Wedger...we call it "magic apples" and she gets to impress her friends!

[pamperedposey]

Am I the only one that's not loving the new kitchen shears? Too weak of a spring and my blades don't close all the way!!

BTW, I send my daughter to school with the apple cut almost all the way from the Apple Wedger...we call it "magic apples" and she gets to impress her friends!

I heard they had a defective batch when they first sent out the one's that were earned from the sell-a-thon. I don't know why they didn't announce it so that everyone could get theirs replaced. I sent mine back when they completely fell apart on me. I still don't like them as much as the old white ones!

[wadesgirl]

I agree, I think they need to bring the white ones back, they work much better!

[Cindycooks]

I agree too - I hate the new kitchen shears. I love the way the old ones were "one handed" - you could reach for them, squeeze and they were open (all the while holding the meat or whatever you are cutting, in the other hand). With the new ones, it takes two hands - one to grab and one to remove the little cover. I have gotten to where I leave the cover off and just put them down in my TTA. and btw, I've had the same comments from a couple customers!

[chefjwr]

oil spritzer, large serving tong

[wadesgirl]

oil spritzer, large serving tong

No don't take my oil spritzers away! I love those babies! They work perfect without getting everything sticky from the propellant that Pam has!

[MissChef]

I do like the old ones better! I wish they would have just made them black and not changed the design!