At 85 years old I discovered a new passion – baking birthday cakes. And I stumbled onto it quite by accident.
Our choir director Ray Wheeler signed us all up for a cake walk to raise funds for scholarships. I had no idea what a cake walk was but I knew that, as a member, I would be shamed into bringing a cake.
Buying one from a bakery seemed like cheating. And no way could I bring myself to make one from a box. However I had no clue where to begin.
Furthermore, the only part of cake I liked was the “ala mode.”
Remembering Mom’s making spice cake for Dad – I searched and found a recipe.
Being a complete noob, I meticulously followed the recipe. With one exception. Instead of two layers, I split the two cakes and made them into four layers.
A great idea, but the recipe only made frosting for two layers. Oops. Make another batch!
Just like in my childhood, I licked the bowls and spoons. Unlike my childhood, the extra four pounds on my waist didn’t disappear while running around the back yard.
Carnival day arrived, and I learned how a cake walk works. Though I only signed up to bring a cake, at the event I added a financial contribution. I bought a ticket. And won.
And I realized the cake I really wanted was my own.
That evening our family gathered to dive in. The only joy richer than baking that cake was the celebrity I enjoyed while everyone snarfed it down.
My new passion was born.
In this blog I’ll share stories behind the cakes I make.
The cake looks yummy. Guess what you are going to do when you visit?
Careful what you ask for. Bill will have a field day with all the new stuff I’ll have to buy for your kitchen.