The Pecan Shed now has all four of their great pecan varieties available to choose from!
The Pawnee pecan (which is the most popular pecan the Pecan Shed sells) is available in the shell, cracked, and shelled. This pecan is great for eating or baking. It is a large, oblong pecan with good oil content.
The Cheyenne pecan is a smaller pecan that is very bright in color. This pecan is very round and does not have as much oil as the Pawnee. Lots of people like to bake with this pecan because it makes pie fillings lighter in color. Some people even think the Cheyenne has a sweet taste to it! This pecan is available in the shell, cracked, and shelled.
The Choctaw pecan is the largest pecan the pecan shed sells and it is available in the shell, cracked and shelled. It is very light in color and cracks very well. If you are looking for a pecan that shells out easily this is the pecan you need. Also, due to its size, the Choctaw is a great roasting and toasting pecan.
The Wichita pecan is similar in size to the Pawnee and it is only available in the shell and cracked. It has the most oil of all four varieties. This pecan fills out so tight in the shell it does not shell out as well or as easy as the others. It is also a good pecan for roasting and toasting.
Stop by the Pecan Shed soon and sample these four great pecan flavors and decide for yourself which is your favorite!!!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Fudge Flavor of the Month for November is...
...Divinity Fudge! Yummy!!! This fudge is so good it will definitely put you in the holiday spirit. Also, due to its popularity, the Pecan Shed still has Pumpkin Pie Fudge available with or without nuts. For those of you who love pumpkin pie you are going to LOVE this fudge.
And for a limited time only the Pecan Shed has Birthday Cake Fudge in order to help us celebrate 28 years of being in business! Happy Birthday Pecan Shed!!! This fudge is so tasty you are going to want to find a reason to celebrate everyday!
And for a limited time only the Pecan Shed has Birthday Cake Fudge in order to help us celebrate 28 years of being in business! Happy Birthday Pecan Shed!!! This fudge is so tasty you are going to want to find a reason to celebrate everyday!
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Nuts for a Cure...
The Pecan Shed staff, family and friends recently participated in a local Race for a Cure with the Susan G. Komen foundation. The event was a lot of fun and meant so much to all of us who have been touched by breast cancer. The morning of the walk could not have been nicer and too see the hundreds of early risers who got up to walk for a cure was very touching. Men, women, young, old, survivors, fighters, and all those who walked in remembrance of a loved one were wearing pink, laughing, smiling, and shedding a tear or two. What a great day!!!
The Pecan Shed had it's "We are Nuts about finding a Cure" t-shirts on and they were a big hit. Thanks to all who walked with the Pecan Shed or purchased a t-shirt from us and thanks to all who do so much in the fight against breast cancer.
Rock the Pink!
The Pecan Shed had it's "We are Nuts about finding a Cure" t-shirts on and they were a big hit. Thanks to all who walked with the Pecan Shed or purchased a t-shirt from us and thanks to all who do so much in the fight against breast cancer.
Rock the Pink!
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Fudge Flavor of the Month for October is...
...Pumpkin Pie! And if you like pumpkin pies like Grandma used to make...you are going to LOVE our Pumpkin Pie Fudge!!! We have it with pecans or without but both are delicious! Stop in today and try some...see you soon!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
New Crop Pecans Are Here!!!
The New 2009 Crop has just arrived at the Pecan Shed and they look fabulous!!! The Pawnee pecans are in and they are bigger and better than ever! These cool temperatures have caused the Pawnees to come off a little earlier than expected but it was a welcomed surprise. Thanks to rain at just the right time during the growing season these pecans have filled out nicely.
Please stop in today and get a sample of these truly Texas treats!
Please stop in today and get a sample of these truly Texas treats!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Popping Open...
New Crop Pecans will be here soon! The Pawnee Pecans are beginning to pop open thanks to recent rains and cooler weather. With any luck we will have harvesters in the orchards by Oct. 1st and will have new crop in the store ready for all to enjoy by the Middle of October! We just can't wait!!!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
2009 Bumper Crop
The upcoming 2009 Pecan Crop looks to be a "bumper" crop for the state of Texas and especially for the area around us. Pecan trees that are not commercially managed will typically follow a 3 year cycle of a bumper crop year, lean year, and then medium size crop year. Of course Mother Nature can have a hand in influencing this cycle. Too little or too much rain can harm a crop, late freezes in the Spring or early freezes in the Fall can also cause damage, insects such as weevils can wipe out a crop too, and many other factors can have a determining factor on a pecan crop.
The Montz Orchards that are managed by Tim and Jake Montz as well as others are done so in a way to try and avoid cycles. The goal at our orchards is to have the trees produce a standard amount (or as close to it as possible) year after year. Again, we too have to deal with Mother Nature, but with lots of good management techniques, plenty of prayer, and a little luck we can have a steady crop of top quality papershell pecans year after year.
As you can see from the pictures, even our trees are pretty loaded with pecans. The limbs are getting heavy due to the pecans transitioning from the water stage to the stage where the actual pecan meat forms. These pictures are of Pawnee pecan trees which come off very early (sometimes 30 days before the other varieties).
Right now our major concern is weevils. This is the time of year when this insect will try to infest the pecan crop. We have 7 to 10 days of intense monitoring to do to ensure we do not lose our crop to this creature!!!
All the trees around Wichita Falls look to be really loaded. This will make November - January a very busy but fun time at the Pecan Shed. We always enjoy cracking pecans for our customers and seeing those kids who have worked hard all day picking up pecans in either their yard, a neighbor's yard, or perhaps Grandpa's yard get rewarded for their labor!
Take care,
Jill
The Montz Orchards that are managed by Tim and Jake Montz as well as others are done so in a way to try and avoid cycles. The goal at our orchards is to have the trees produce a standard amount (or as close to it as possible) year after year. Again, we too have to deal with Mother Nature, but with lots of good management techniques, plenty of prayer, and a little luck we can have a steady crop of top quality papershell pecans year after year.
As you can see from the pictures, even our trees are pretty loaded with pecans. The limbs are getting heavy due to the pecans transitioning from the water stage to the stage where the actual pecan meat forms. These pictures are of Pawnee pecan trees which come off very early (sometimes 30 days before the other varieties).
Right now our major concern is weevils. This is the time of year when this insect will try to infest the pecan crop. We have 7 to 10 days of intense monitoring to do to ensure we do not lose our crop to this creature!!!
All the trees around Wichita Falls look to be really loaded. This will make November - January a very busy but fun time at the Pecan Shed. We always enjoy cracking pecans for our customers and seeing those kids who have worked hard all day picking up pecans in either their yard, a neighbor's yard, or perhaps Grandpa's yard get rewarded for their labor!
Take care,
Jill
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Fudge Flavor of the Month for August is...
...Key Lime! If you like Key Lime Pie for dessert, you are going to LOVE our homemade Key Lime Fudge any time of day! Kathy is our famous fudge maker and she herself claims that this is her favorite flavor. Stop in today for a free sample!
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Texas Pecan Growers' Association
I just got back from the 88th Annual Texas Pecan Growers Association Conference and Trade Show that was hosted in Mesquite, TX. Mom, Dad, Jake, Keri, Presley, Tony, Dotty, and I were all in attendance and boy did we make one heck of a group! Dotty and Presley were a big hit with all the growers. The girls were soooo cute and only acted really bad about half the time...Just kidding...it was a little less than half.
Both Dad and I gave speeches at the event. Dad talked about the trip he took to China with TPGA. The Chinese market is really wanting fresh and flavorful Texas Pecans so Dad went over there to meet with some buyers, learn about how to ship and sell pecans to China, and to educate buyers over there about pecans. He did a great job on his talk and I know he loved the once in a lifetime trip.
I gave a talk about retail marketing. I am sure I talked way too fast and way too much but I tend to do that. I was really nervous and I know my voice showed it at times but all in all I had a real good time giving my speech and it is always good to get outside your comfort zone from time to time and that was definitely not something I was comfy doing.
According to all the growers I talked to it looks like this year will be a great crop for Texas...Lord willing! We all could use some rain and a break from this heat but I know the rains will come when they are supposed to. Until then I am just thankful for the irrigation we have on our trees. However, I do continue to pray for rain!
Both Dad and I gave speeches at the event. Dad talked about the trip he took to China with TPGA. The Chinese market is really wanting fresh and flavorful Texas Pecans so Dad went over there to meet with some buyers, learn about how to ship and sell pecans to China, and to educate buyers over there about pecans. He did a great job on his talk and I know he loved the once in a lifetime trip.
I gave a talk about retail marketing. I am sure I talked way too fast and way too much but I tend to do that. I was really nervous and I know my voice showed it at times but all in all I had a real good time giving my speech and it is always good to get outside your comfort zone from time to time and that was definitely not something I was comfy doing.
According to all the growers I talked to it looks like this year will be a great crop for Texas...Lord willing! We all could use some rain and a break from this heat but I know the rains will come when they are supposed to. Until then I am just thankful for the irrigation we have on our trees. However, I do continue to pray for rain!
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Dallas Market Madness!!!
WoW! What a trip to the Dallas Market I just had. This was my first year to ever do the Dallas Market all by myself and let me tell you...it was fun and scary all at the same time! In the past, I have always gone to Market with either my mom, Molly, and/or Kathy. But this year I was solo...I can't wait to see how the new items I ordered do in the store.
I got several new fun lines like Servant's Heart, Glory Haus, and Planet Cowgirl. Of course I still ordered from those great lines that we have had for many years such as Texas Products, Cactus Rose, Truly Texas, and many, many more!
We already have items arriving in the store and new stuff is expected every day. This is one of the best times of the year at the Pecan Shed. It is like Christmas in July for us!
You need to stop in soon to check out all the new items! However, you had better hurry. Yesterday we could not keep up with our customers. As soon as we unpacked the new products to put them out our customers were buying many of them as soon as they hit the shelf!
I got several new fun lines like Servant's Heart, Glory Haus, and Planet Cowgirl. Of course I still ordered from those great lines that we have had for many years such as Texas Products, Cactus Rose, Truly Texas, and many, many more!
We already have items arriving in the store and new stuff is expected every day. This is one of the best times of the year at the Pecan Shed. It is like Christmas in July for us!
You need to stop in soon to check out all the new items! However, you had better hurry. Yesterday we could not keep up with our customers. As soon as we unpacked the new products to put them out our customers were buying many of them as soon as they hit the shelf!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Things are Moving Along...
Hey All,
Things are just moving right along with the new addition to the Pecan Shed. The exterior of the building is up and done! Now we have a LONG white wall to look at all the time. I am hoping that some signs and plants might break that up and help with its appearance. Keep your fingers crossed!
Yesterday we had the sidewalk poured around the new addition. I even got to write the date in the cement since Dad was out of town at the Oklahoma Pecan Convention. It was very exciting! For those of you who may need that type of service in the future I am available for a reasonable fee. Just Kidding!
We got some rain yesterday and are expected to get more during the next few days. This has caused some of the plans to be put on hold. I believe the next part of the project is to pave the parking lot. They have already torn up the ground in order to prepare for it. Of course, after the rain we got we have just one big mud hole out there right now. My 21 month old daughter would be in heaven if I would just let her in it. Just think of all the mud pies she could make!
Things are just moving right along with the new addition to the Pecan Shed. The exterior of the building is up and done! Now we have a LONG white wall to look at all the time. I am hoping that some signs and plants might break that up and help with its appearance. Keep your fingers crossed!
Yesterday we had the sidewalk poured around the new addition. I even got to write the date in the cement since Dad was out of town at the Oklahoma Pecan Convention. It was very exciting! For those of you who may need that type of service in the future I am available for a reasonable fee. Just Kidding!
We got some rain yesterday and are expected to get more during the next few days. This has caused some of the plans to be put on hold. I believe the next part of the project is to pave the parking lot. They have already torn up the ground in order to prepare for it. Of course, after the rain we got we have just one big mud hole out there right now. My 21 month old daughter would be in heaven if I would just let her in it. Just think of all the mud pies she could make!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
We are Growing!!!
The Pecan Shed is growing...and I am not just talking about our trees. The retail store at 1401 Midwestern Pkwy is expanding. Due to demand and the hopes of a great crop of pecans this upcoming season we are doubling the size of our building.
Originally when the Pecan Shed was built at this location back in 1994 we had a small retail area, two offices, a bathroom, and the rest was warehouse. Over the years we have doubled the retail floor space, added another office, put in a storage room, brought in a commercial freezer to house our shelled pecans during the summer, and added a packaging room which back in November was converted into a our Fudge Factory. Thus we have lost quite a bit of warehouse space.
With this in mind, Dad decided to add on to the existing building. Originally it was only going to be about half as big as it is now but Dad always likes things bigger and better. Not only will the new addition house a lot of warehouse space but it will also have a commercial kitchen for making fudge, homemade pies, pecan brittle, pecan logs, and so many more delicious treats. There will also be more offices that will be used strictly for buying pecans from the public which we then turn around and ship to national shelling companies.
It is very exciting (and thanks to some rain a little muddy) around here. We can't wait to see it all finished and start moving stuff in. This next pecan season should be very interesting and a lot more roomy!!!
Originally when the Pecan Shed was built at this location back in 1994 we had a small retail area, two offices, a bathroom, and the rest was warehouse. Over the years we have doubled the retail floor space, added another office, put in a storage room, brought in a commercial freezer to house our shelled pecans during the summer, and added a packaging room which back in November was converted into a our Fudge Factory. Thus we have lost quite a bit of warehouse space.
With this in mind, Dad decided to add on to the existing building. Originally it was only going to be about half as big as it is now but Dad always likes things bigger and better. Not only will the new addition house a lot of warehouse space but it will also have a commercial kitchen for making fudge, homemade pies, pecan brittle, pecan logs, and so many more delicious treats. There will also be more offices that will be used strictly for buying pecans from the public which we then turn around and ship to national shelling companies.
It is very exciting (and thanks to some rain a little muddy) around here. We can't wait to see it all finished and start moving stuff in. This next pecan season should be very interesting and a lot more roomy!!!
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Spring has Sprung!!!
We are in full "Spring" mode at the Pecan Shed. The trees are blooming out and getting so pretty and green (which is always a good sign around here). We did have a scare a few weeks ago when a hard freeze hit the Charlie, TX area but luckily we think we will have survived Mother Nature's fury once again.
We have also gotten some nice rain lately. However, as always we could use more. So keep up the rain dances for us.
The store has been booming with Fudge Dipped Strawberry sales. These are such a big hit! People are buying the for proms, showers, weddings, parties, and simply to make an ordinary day a special one. So don't forget that Mother's Day is coming up soon (May 10th) and Fudge Dipped Strawberries would make any Mom's day!
We also have some new fudge flavors available. We have added Dark Chocolate Fudge to our other flavors. We have Plain Dark Chocolate, Dark Chocolate with Pecans, and Raspberry Dark Chocolate...YUMMY!!!
Stop in today for a taste!
We have also gotten some nice rain lately. However, as always we could use more. So keep up the rain dances for us.
The store has been booming with Fudge Dipped Strawberry sales. These are such a big hit! People are buying the for proms, showers, weddings, parties, and simply to make an ordinary day a special one. So don't forget that Mother's Day is coming up soon (May 10th) and Fudge Dipped Strawberries would make any Mom's day!
We also have some new fudge flavors available. We have added Dark Chocolate Fudge to our other flavors. We have Plain Dark Chocolate, Dark Chocolate with Pecans, and Raspberry Dark Chocolate...YUMMY!!!
Stop in today for a taste!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Happy Easter!!!
Happy Easter to all of you who are going to be enjoying the long holiday weekend. The Pecan Shed has just been "hopping" with fudge dipped strawberries. Lots of our customers have been buying up these delicious treats for their Easter festivities. Of course they are the perfect treat for any type of occasion. They are perfect for parties, showers, meetings, get-togethers with family and friends or just as a sweet treat to make an ordinary day even better.
Remember the Pecan Shed has fudge dipped strawberries available every Saturday so stop in and buy one or two or even a dozen! And if you find yourself craving these fudge dipped goodies during the week you can call ahead and order some (one dozen minimum).
We hope you and your family have a great Easter Weekend. Please take time to enjoy family and friends and of course the fudge dipped strawberries!
Please pray for rain as well...we all need it!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
March Madness...
Mother Nature is causing quite a few problems around our area. Due to the warm (actually HOT) weather we had for several days straight in March, our pecan trees (particularly the Cheyenne and Pawnee trees) began to bud out early. Now, thanks to Mother Nature's sick sense of humor, we had temps in the low 30s - upper 20s last night (March 27th) with actual snow flurries. Tonight the thermometer is supposed to dip down around 27 or so degrees. All of this is not good for those buds that have already sprung out.
We need some rain but not in the form of snow (at least that is not how we would prefer it). As I have said before, some things in the pecan business are out of our control. We do our best but we cannot control the weather.
Of course we could be having all the troubles they are having up North with waters hitting 43 feet and still counting last time I checked. I would pray for those people first but please keep our little problem in your thoughts as well.
We need some rain but not in the form of snow (at least that is not how we would prefer it). As I have said before, some things in the pecan business are out of our control. We do our best but we cannot control the weather.
Of course we could be having all the troubles they are having up North with waters hitting 43 feet and still counting last time I checked. I would pray for those people first but please keep our little problem in your thoughts as well.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Pruning Time...
The orchard is buzzing...and I literally mean buzzing...with the sounds of chainsaws as it is time to prune and hedge the trees. The reason for pruning and hedging is to maintain the tree's size and to prevent overcrowding.
Due to the fact that Tim's main goal is to produce about the same pounds of pecans each year off his trees, he wants to keep the tree from getting too big and thus overproducing the next year. ***It is important to state here that although Tim, Jake, and all those that work out at the orchards follow orchard management practices to ensure crop production, this type of work has factors beyond human control. Mother Nature is constantly providing too little (or on rare occasions...too much) rain, sending late or early freezes, blowing in high winds, or pelting the area with hail...all of which is not good!***
Pruning and hedging also keeps the orchard from becoming overcrowded as a whole. When it comes time for pecans to begin to develop and grow they need lots of sunlight. With pruning and hedging this allows more sunlight to be able to filter in throughout the trees and all the way down to the orchard floor.
The picture I have posted along with this information is of one of the guys up in the Pruning Tower cutting off the tops of the trees. This must be done to every tree...all 8000+ of them. Then the guys have to come along and pick up all the branches and haul them off to make sure the orchard floor will be clean and clear for future work to be done.
I am just glad I run the store and do not have to drive the Pruning Tower. I am terrified of heights!!!
Due to the fact that Tim's main goal is to produce about the same pounds of pecans each year off his trees, he wants to keep the tree from getting too big and thus overproducing the next year. ***It is important to state here that although Tim, Jake, and all those that work out at the orchards follow orchard management practices to ensure crop production, this type of work has factors beyond human control. Mother Nature is constantly providing too little (or on rare occasions...too much) rain, sending late or early freezes, blowing in high winds, or pelting the area with hail...all of which is not good!***
Pruning and hedging also keeps the orchard from becoming overcrowded as a whole. When it comes time for pecans to begin to develop and grow they need lots of sunlight. With pruning and hedging this allows more sunlight to be able to filter in throughout the trees and all the way down to the orchard floor.
The picture I have posted along with this information is of one of the guys up in the Pruning Tower cutting off the tops of the trees. This must be done to every tree...all 8000+ of them. Then the guys have to come along and pick up all the branches and haul them off to make sure the orchard floor will be clean and clear for future work to be done.
I am just glad I run the store and do not have to drive the Pruning Tower. I am terrified of heights!!!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
And the February Winner is...
...Brenda Terry. Congratulations Brenda! You are the winner of a large heart filled with Chocolate Pecan Fudge! The March drawing is already underway. This month the prize is 8 pieces of free fudge. If you are the lucky winner you can get all 8 pieces of the same fudge flavor or 8 different flavors...your choice!
We have new fudge flavors for March too! Key Lime, Cookie Dough, Maple, Maple Nut, and Tiger Fudge. Yummy! Of course we still have all our most popular flavors like Chocolate Pecan, Butter Pecan, Peanut Butter, Vanilla Caramel Swirl, and Sugar Free just to name a few.
Again, congratulations Brenda! We hope you enjoy the fudge!
We have new fudge flavors for March too! Key Lime, Cookie Dough, Maple, Maple Nut, and Tiger Fudge. Yummy! Of course we still have all our most popular flavors like Chocolate Pecan, Butter Pecan, Peanut Butter, Vanilla Caramel Swirl, and Sugar Free just to name a few.
Again, congratulations Brenda! We hope you enjoy the fudge!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Super Sweet Saturday...
Due to the high demand for Fudge Dipped Strawberries, the Pecan Shed will be offering them every Saturday. There is no need to place an order but there is a need to come in early. We will dip berries until we run out of them. However, you can always preorder to ensure you will get a taste of the good stuff.
Just a reminder that the strawberries are $1.25 each or $15.00 per dozen. They are great for a sweet treat or to take to any type of party. Many people have already used them as a dish at showers, luncheons, meetings, parties, receptions, etc. and the strawberries are still getting rave reviews.
Stop in this Saturday for a Fudge Dipped Strawberry...or two...or a dozen!!!
Just a reminder that the strawberries are $1.25 each or $15.00 per dozen. They are great for a sweet treat or to take to any type of party. Many people have already used them as a dish at showers, luncheons, meetings, parties, receptions, etc. and the strawberries are still getting rave reviews.
Stop in this Saturday for a Fudge Dipped Strawberry...or two...or a dozen!!!
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Happy Valentine's Day...
Happy Valentine's Day to all of you out there. I hope your day is sweet and full of love. We here at the Pecan Shed have been having a very nice Valentine's Day. The Fudge Dipped Strawberries are a huge hit! And the customers like them too!
All jokes aside, those of us at the store have eaten at least a dozen or so ourselves. Friday was our busiest day since Christmas. We sold quite a few dozen strawberries and we were very lucky to have some nice bosses come in and give them to their employees as gifts. Those employees then came in and got some too.
Making the strawberries was a blast! Molly (Mom) and I made some fudge Thursday night and if you remember the episode of "I Love Lucy" where Lucy and Ethel are working in the candy factory and they lose all control over the process that was so me and Mom. It was hilarious! I think we ended up cleaning more fudge off the walls than we got made to dip the berries!!! I know Mom had some on her shirt...I guess she was saving it for the drive home.
Just so you know, we will still be selling Fudge Dipped Strawberries even after Valentine's Day. The minimum order is 24 berries and you need to give us 24 hours notice. They are perfect for parties, showers, a girl's night out, meetings, teacher gifts, etc.
Happy Heart's Day...Jill
All jokes aside, those of us at the store have eaten at least a dozen or so ourselves. Friday was our busiest day since Christmas. We sold quite a few dozen strawberries and we were very lucky to have some nice bosses come in and give them to their employees as gifts. Those employees then came in and got some too.
Making the strawberries was a blast! Molly (Mom) and I made some fudge Thursday night and if you remember the episode of "I Love Lucy" where Lucy and Ethel are working in the candy factory and they lose all control over the process that was so me and Mom. It was hilarious! I think we ended up cleaning more fudge off the walls than we got made to dip the berries!!! I know Mom had some on her shirt...I guess she was saving it for the drive home.
Just so you know, we will still be selling Fudge Dipped Strawberries even after Valentine's Day. The minimum order is 24 berries and you need to give us 24 hours notice. They are perfect for parties, showers, a girl's night out, meetings, teacher gifts, etc.
Happy Heart's Day...Jill
Friday, February 6, 2009
Fudge Dipped Strawberries
The Pecan Shed is now selling Fudge Dipped Strawberries! Yum!!! The are so good you will want to eat a dozen yourself. Of course they are a great idea for Valentine's Day too. You do need to call ahead to place an order because we need about 24 hours notice in order to get them ready. The strawberries are $1.25 each and $15.00 for a dozen. Stop by and try some soon! It is also recommended that you consume them on the day you pick them up due to the fact that they have a limited shelf life.
We hope to see you soon!
We hope to see you soon!
Monday, February 2, 2009
And the Winner is...
...Kim Watson!!! Kim is the January Drawing winner of 6 pieces of FREE fudge. Congratulations to Kim! We hope she enjoys the fudge.
The February Drawing is for a large heart shaped box of chocolate fudge (valued at $13.95). All you have to do is stop by the Pecan Shed and enter to win. At the end of the month we draw and announce the next winner. We simply need your name along with a phone number and/or an email address in order to contact you if you win.
We hope to see you soon!
The February Drawing is for a large heart shaped box of chocolate fudge (valued at $13.95). All you have to do is stop by the Pecan Shed and enter to win. At the end of the month we draw and announce the next winner. We simply need your name along with a phone number and/or an email address in order to contact you if you win.
We hope to see you soon!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Texas Waffle Maker
The Pecan Shed has just received the Texas Waffle Maker! This exciting kitchen appliance makes delicious waffles in the shape of Texas. It is the perfect gift for newlyweds, new Texans, misplaced Texans, or just about anyone on your list. The Texas Waffle Maker would also make a great addition to your own kitchen. With it you would be able to whip up a Texas treat for all your family and friends. Your breakfast bunch will be tipping their hats to you and your chuck wagon of a kitchen.
In addition to the Texas Waffle Maker, you have just got to try the Southern Pecan Gourmet Waffle Mix topped off with some Toasted Pecan Syrup. These items will surely tempt your tastebuds!
Stop by the Pecan Shed for more unique Texas gifts and gourmet treats!
In addition to the Texas Waffle Maker, you have just got to try the Southern Pecan Gourmet Waffle Mix topped off with some Toasted Pecan Syrup. These items will surely tempt your tastebuds!
Stop by the Pecan Shed for more unique Texas gifts and gourmet treats!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Winter Weather
Thanks to Mother Nature the Pecan Shed was closed all day yesterday and until 1pm today. Since most of us live in rural areas, about 30 miles from the store, we have trouble making it to work when the roads get bad.
I laugh at all the schools that shut down the minute a snowflake falls. It is crazy to see how we in this part of Texas react to a little snow and ice when people up north still go to school and work in several feet of snow...much less inches.
Of course the snow did not last long and by Saturday we are supposed to be back up in the 60s. Good 'ol Texas weather! If you don't like it today just wait...it will change to the exact opposite again soon.
We are all glad to be at work though because new things are arriving daily from when Mom and I went to Market. Keep checking in for what all is new!
I laugh at all the schools that shut down the minute a snowflake falls. It is crazy to see how we in this part of Texas react to a little snow and ice when people up north still go to school and work in several feet of snow...much less inches.
Of course the snow did not last long and by Saturday we are supposed to be back up in the 60s. Good 'ol Texas weather! If you don't like it today just wait...it will change to the exact opposite again soon.
We are all glad to be at work though because new things are arriving daily from when Mom and I went to Market. Keep checking in for what all is new!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Birthday Cake Fudge - YUM!!!
Mom and I just got back from the Dallas Market where we saw and ordered some new and exciting gifts for the store. As soon as they start arriving I will let you know.
However, the best thing we found at Market was a new recipe for fudge...Birthday Cake Fudge! YUMMY! It is the best stuff I have ever had in my life! It is so good I want to eat an entire pan (although my Weight Watchers leader may frown upon that...I wonder how many points a piece of fudge is???).
If you are by the store you have just got to stop in to try some of this fudge. It is soooo good I just cannot even explain it. It makes you want to celebrate every day with some Birthday Cake fudge!
We also have some new flavors for Valentine's Day like Chocolate Cheesecake, Strawberry Cheesecake, Strawberry Nut, and Chocolate Covered Strawberry. Tracy, our fudge lady, even came up with "Sprinkle Me Happy" Valentine's Day fudge...it comes in plain vanilla or plain chocolate but it is so cute!
Have a great day...Jill
However, the best thing we found at Market was a new recipe for fudge...Birthday Cake Fudge! YUMMY! It is the best stuff I have ever had in my life! It is so good I want to eat an entire pan (although my Weight Watchers leader may frown upon that...I wonder how many points a piece of fudge is???).
If you are by the store you have just got to stop in to try some of this fudge. It is soooo good I just cannot even explain it. It makes you want to celebrate every day with some Birthday Cake fudge!
We also have some new flavors for Valentine's Day like Chocolate Cheesecake, Strawberry Cheesecake, Strawberry Nut, and Chocolate Covered Strawberry. Tracy, our fudge lady, even came up with "Sprinkle Me Happy" Valentine's Day fudge...it comes in plain vanilla or plain chocolate but it is so cute!
Have a great day...Jill
Monday, January 12, 2009
Sad News
We have had some sad news at the Pecan Shed recently. One of our dearest and sweetest employees, Becky, who has worked here part-time since the Fall of 1994, lost her father this past Saturday. He had endured a difficult struggle with his health for years and Becky had been by his side the entire time.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to her and her family during this sad time. May God bless them and keep them close to Him.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to her and her family during this sad time. May God bless them and keep them close to Him.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Orchard News
This time of year is a slower time for those who work out in the Montz Orchards in Charlie, TX. The Montz family has 220 acres with 8,000 trees located at their home orchard in Charlie. Also, between Byers and Thornberry, TX they own other orchards. Some of the orchards are older but some have just been planted. All these trees keep Jake and Tim very busy.
While this time of year is slower than October through December there are still things to be done. All the equipment must be overhauled and checked to make sure it will work again next year. Sometimes in the middle of harvest machines are fixed "just good enough" to finish the job. This time of year is when the proper maintenance occurs.
In addition to repairing the "nuts and bolts" of the business, the guys out at Charlie are also cleaning up the orchard floors to make sure all the pecans from that season have been picked up, all broken limbs are hauled off, and the orchard floor is smooth and ready for the next phase of crop maintenance. The trees are also pruned during this time in order keep them in commercial production form.
This year was an "off" year for our area. We had a bumper crop last year and after a bumper crop the next year is always scarce. Next year should be a little better and then the following year should be another big crop. Pecan trees typically have a three year cycle.
1. Bumper Crop
2. Scarce Crop
3. Decent Crop
Repeat
Of course all this is subject to Mother Nature. Getting enough rain, having the right temps at the right times, and avoiding freezes when they would destroy a crop are all some things that pecan producers simply cannot control.
Most of the Montz Orchards are on irrigation and so we can help with the water situation a little, but Tim says he sure has been praying for rain lately. Along with the irrigation systems, Jake and Tim use crop management tactics to try and ensure a constant crop year after year. These practices includes hedging, spraying, and shaking the trees to try and have an impact on the crop size each year. These tactics help to ensure that the Pecan Shed store will always have enough of those top quality papershell pecans available for their customers.
Thanks to Tim and Jake, as well as Scott and Chad who also work at the orchards, the Pecan Shed has been pleasing customers for over 20 years with farm fresh pecans that are hard to beat!
While this time of year is slower than October through December there are still things to be done. All the equipment must be overhauled and checked to make sure it will work again next year. Sometimes in the middle of harvest machines are fixed "just good enough" to finish the job. This time of year is when the proper maintenance occurs.
In addition to repairing the "nuts and bolts" of the business, the guys out at Charlie are also cleaning up the orchard floors to make sure all the pecans from that season have been picked up, all broken limbs are hauled off, and the orchard floor is smooth and ready for the next phase of crop maintenance. The trees are also pruned during this time in order keep them in commercial production form.
This year was an "off" year for our area. We had a bumper crop last year and after a bumper crop the next year is always scarce. Next year should be a little better and then the following year should be another big crop. Pecan trees typically have a three year cycle.
1. Bumper Crop
2. Scarce Crop
3. Decent Crop
Repeat
Of course all this is subject to Mother Nature. Getting enough rain, having the right temps at the right times, and avoiding freezes when they would destroy a crop are all some things that pecan producers simply cannot control.
Most of the Montz Orchards are on irrigation and so we can help with the water situation a little, but Tim says he sure has been praying for rain lately. Along with the irrigation systems, Jake and Tim use crop management tactics to try and ensure a constant crop year after year. These practices includes hedging, spraying, and shaking the trees to try and have an impact on the crop size each year. These tactics help to ensure that the Pecan Shed store will always have enough of those top quality papershell pecans available for their customers.
Thanks to Tim and Jake, as well as Scott and Chad who also work at the orchards, the Pecan Shed has been pleasing customers for over 20 years with farm fresh pecans that are hard to beat!
Fudge, Fudge, and More Fudge...
This year at the Pecan Shed we took on a new project. Tim came up with the idea to buy a fudge kettle and make homemade fudge at our store. While Jill and Molly were a little hesitant (if not downright defiant) about the idea, Tim proceeded with the project anyway (he usually does). We took out the old sales counter and made a new one to showcase the fudge and we also remodeled a room at the store in which to make the homemade fudge.
While sales were slow at first, thanks to advertising and word of mouth, they soon picked up and by Christmas time we were hopping with fudge sales. People were buying the stuff by the whole pan...some even several pans at a time! It was crazy...or should I say nuts!
Our most popular fudge flavors are plain chocolate, chocolate pecan, butter pecan, peanut butter and chocolate layered, chocolate mint, vanilla caramel swirl, divinity, rocky road, coconut pecan, and sugar free plain chocolate or with pecans. Jill's favorite is the peanut butter and chocolate layered...of course her jeans no longer fit but it was sooooo good!
During Christmas we also offered peppermint fudge and fudge topped with M&M's. Currently we are working on some fudge flavors for Valentine's Day...cheesecake fudge seems to be a favorite suggestion so far! Also for Valentine's Day we will have V-Day boxes available as well as heart containers filled with chocolate fudge. What a perfect gift for your Sweetie!
Make everyday a holiday with our homemade fudge!!!
While sales were slow at first, thanks to advertising and word of mouth, they soon picked up and by Christmas time we were hopping with fudge sales. People were buying the stuff by the whole pan...some even several pans at a time! It was crazy...or should I say nuts!
Our most popular fudge flavors are plain chocolate, chocolate pecan, butter pecan, peanut butter and chocolate layered, chocolate mint, vanilla caramel swirl, divinity, rocky road, coconut pecan, and sugar free plain chocolate or with pecans. Jill's favorite is the peanut butter and chocolate layered...of course her jeans no longer fit but it was sooooo good!
During Christmas we also offered peppermint fudge and fudge topped with M&M's. Currently we are working on some fudge flavors for Valentine's Day...cheesecake fudge seems to be a favorite suggestion so far! Also for Valentine's Day we will have V-Day boxes available as well as heart containers filled with chocolate fudge. What a perfect gift for your Sweetie!
Make everyday a holiday with our homemade fudge!!!
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
The Newest Nut in the Blog World...
Welcome to the first posting of the Pecan Shed blog! We hope you will find our blog informative and fun. We plan to include news about what is new at the store, what we are doing in our orchards, and a little bit of personal information about the Montz family and the Pecan Shed staff.
Currently we are in our "off" season so the blog should be updated rather regular. During our "pecan" season of October through December it may be harder to find time to update the blog but we will do our best.
Thank you for visiting us today. We hope it is a good one for you.
Currently we are in our "off" season so the blog should be updated rather regular. During our "pecan" season of October through December it may be harder to find time to update the blog but we will do our best.
Thank you for visiting us today. We hope it is a good one for you.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)