I’m blogging a little early because tonight I’m hopping on a plane to Jamaica this evening where Awesome is about to get craaazy. At any rate, I’m not sure how much time or internet I will have so I am doing this now. Anyway, enough explaining.

Factories. They fascinate me. Not all of them, only the good ones like Tillamook Cheese, Celestial Seasonings and Coors Brewery. (All of which I’ve been to of course.) Even with “Charlie and The Chocolate Factory” being one of my favorite movies, I had never been to a candy factory. Well, it just so happened there is one about two miles down the street from my apartment. It’s not just any candy factory either, it’s Hammond’s. The candy is world-renown and has been featured in many magazines and tv shows including Martha Stewart and Oprah. The candy is sold at Whole Foods, Dean&Deluca and many “posh” little stores.

Hammond’s has been handmaking candy since 1920 and the technique is still used today. The place gives free tours (and candy) showing the ins and outs of candy making. The best part? The building smells like a dream. I just wanted to bottle it up. It was magical. The scent of maple, sugar and spice made my heart patter. I was kind of expecting little green munchkins to come out and sing, but sadly there was no happy music, no chocolate waterfall and no Wonka. Dang. Maybe I try to break in at night and see what really goes on. That would be Awesome right? Here’s a little history on Hammond’s. Get ready for Awesome to get tropical tomorrow!! —TS

You know who else is getting Awesome? 7 other pretty little ladies. www.30daysofawesome.com.

Some funny moments from the Charlie and The Chocolate Factory remake.