Julie Pauly (a.k.a. The Able Baker) is walking testament to the powers of patience and positive thinking.

After some trials and tribulations, the Diva of Delicious baked goods is hoping her Maplewood Avenue storefront will be opening — for good — by noon tomorrow, just in time for Fall Open Market festivities.

“Though I should wait another week — or 2 or 3! — to work out the final kinks,” says Pauly. “It seems much more fun to swing open the doors and let everyone in for a sneak peek. We'll have our wonderful new coffee from La Colombe and plenty of cupcakes and cookies. Stop by our table in the Fall Market and try a sample of pumpkin cake!”  

Pauly aims to be open 12-5 Saturday, and I aim to be one of the first in line to welcome her to the Village!

Speaking of wonderful things Maplewood Village, you couldn’t hope for a more fabulous Fall Market to usher in the Autumnal shopping season. According to Julie Doran of the Village Alliance, this will be one retail extravaganza you won’t wanna miss:

"We've added a new twist to this year's market: The Artist Fest,” explains Doran. “Geralyn's Art Studio and Rick Hauser of the Framing Mill have invited local artists to set up stands in the market to showcase their work. In addition, our sponsors — Coda, St. James's Gate, Highland Place and Village Trattoria — are moving outside with some seasonal fare in addition to their regular menus. It will be a great day to relax, dine and shop in our beautiful Village."

Great art, cuisine, libations and shopping? Sounds like the only thing missing is YOU!

You can remedy that by swinging by our sensational Village during the hours of 12 noon to 5:00 p.m. this Saturday, October 1, 2011 (rain or shine):

Bring the whole family to enjoy the best that 35 Village shops and restaurants will be bringing to the outdoor market, including food and wine tastings, deals, steals and a wide range of activities, including music, freebies and product demonstrations. (Click photos for a map to make sure you don’t miss a beat!)

While you’re there, you just might notice a new sign in the former Wok Star window mentioning a new eatery called Burger Boys…. I’ll be serving up all the delectable details soon, I promise!

Happy Friday, Maplewood!