Scoop Dreams & Sugar Schemes: Why Jerzey Junction Came to Life

Opening Day!

We get asked a lot, “You already have full-time jobs/businesses you love (okay- most days)... so why open an ice cream and candy shoppe on top of it?”

Short answer: Because sugar runs in our veins. Longer answer? Well, grab a cone and keep reading......

Debbie and I have talked for years about opening an ice cream and candy shop. Not like a passing dream or “someday” fantasy- more like the kind of idea that sticks with you like gum on a summer sidewalk. Persistent. Nostalgic. Honestly, I don’t think there’s anyone, besides maybe my bonus daughter, who loves ice cream and candy more than I do. I’ve always lived by the “dessert first” rule. I’ve been skipping meals for dessert long before it was trendy. Am I proud? Meh..... Am I ashamed? Absolutely not! #DessertFirstForever

Mom and Dad!

Our dad, who’s been gone for 9 ½ years now, loved ice cream. Our mom? Still drops into the shoppe more times than any doctor would approve. Growing up, if there wasn’t ice cream in the freezer, we were hopping on our bikes headed for Dairy Queen or JJ’s Depot (later) to bring home a Banana Split for Dad (his favorite) or a Peanut Buster Parfait for Mom (her go-to). Were we just being good kids? Sure. But let’s be honest- we knew we’d get ice cream too. Best. Chore. Ever.

Did we plan to open Jerzey Junction now? Nope. But life’s timing rarely listens to your spreadsheets. And even in the chaos of full plates and fuller schedules, we haven’t had a single day of regret. I love being here- scooping cones, sharing stories, handing out smiles (and sour worms). It’s not just a shoppe- it’s a tribute. A tribute to our childhood, to our parents, to each other. It’s a place built on love, laughter, and a whole lotta sugar.

Now, about the candy…

Let’s just say I’ve had a lifelong commitment to the cause. I used to convince Debbie to go on walks with me when we were younger- and oh hey, maybe bring her babysitting money, just in case we stopped for candy. She was just so thrilled her big sister wanted to hang out, she didn’t notice I was basically spending her hard-earned cash. (Love you, Debbie!) In hindsight, maybe not my finest moment—but hey, older sibling perks, right?

So next time you stop by, just know: Jerzey Junction wasn’t born out of a business strategy or some flashy franchise plan. It was built on childhood memories, sibling mischief, and generations of sugar-loving hearts. Every scoop and every candy bin comes with a sweet little legacy! When we’re organizing shelves or fine-tuning our waffle cone game, it’s all being done with love—and a serious sweet tooth. And yes—we’re still sneaking dessert first.

Stay sassy, stay sweet, and see ya at the Junction!

🖤- Michelle