The “quarantine 15” is the new “freshman 15,” describing the 15 pounds college freshmen supposedly put on during their first year away from home. Now, that catchphrase applies to all of us — the quarantined who have nowhere to go but the pantry.
Bakeries across the country are using this to their advantage. An Ohio baker recently released a new line of “quarantine cakes” in the shape of toilet paper rolls, and the cakes sold out almost immediately. It turns out that Busken Bakery’s cakes are almost as popular as the rolls of toilet paper after which they’re designed.
When asked what inspired the cake’s design, Busken Bakery Vice President Brian Busken said he wanted to give Ohio families a “miniature celebration,” even if it’s a bit nonsensical.
“It is important that we continue to laugh together as families and enjoy our time together with our children,” Busken explained.
Krispy Kreme is also using its platform (and its donuts) to spread joy. The company announced that healthcare workers can receive a dozen donuts for free every Monday until May 11. All they need to do is go to a Krispy Kreme drive-thru and show an employee badge from their hospital or doctor’s office.
“Taking care of ourselves and each other never has been more important. Getting through this together by staying apart seems unnatural. But even now … there can be joy. It can bring and keep us ‘together’ in this challenging, disruptive time. At Krispy Kreme, we love bringing smiles to others, especially those who need them the most,” the company said in a statement.
This goodwill is a helpful reminder that kindness builds community, even from a distance. Hopefully, my scale agrees.
