Happy Anniversary!

Jeff and I celebrated nine years of marriage yesterday. Our cake this year was a turtle cake with chocolate ganache. Three cake laters with a spreadable caramel and chopped pecan topping. Mmmmmm.....

Ahem....

Twas the first Sunday in December
And all through the house
Not a creature was stirring
Except for Mrs. Mouse

The tree had been standing for several days now
But no decoration had been placed upon it’s bough

The lights were found all snug in their tote
But once pulled out
All but three went up in smoke

Off Mrs. Mouse flew to buy some new white lights
But upon arrival was shocked to find out
That no white was left
it had all been bought out.

Resolving not to visit another store on Sabbath day
She said with a grin, color is in!
And shortly was on her way

When she returned she took a deep breath
And set about her task
With the red and white wealth

Several turns about the tree
Soon showed Christmas cheer
Ribbon, ornaments, and a star
Promised the end was not far.

All that was needed was a vacuum with a hose
So Santa wouldn’t find tree needles up his nose.

She soon heard a noise that gave her great fright
And watched with horror
As the tree went over
And revealed her new plight.

To cry or to scream
Which one would she do?
All she knew was
she better leave the room.

The tree lay in pieces
On it’s good side
Mr. Mouse declared this stand
Had better be laid aside.

So off he flew
To find something new
To Parker Bros, to Mayo, to Lowe’s and maybe Home Depot too!

He returned in great triumph
And together they restored the tree
with just one mutual oomph
a little crooked, but still a sight to see

They then noticed the time
And saw it was getting late
Soon their sweet little elf
Would soon want her dinner date

Pizza was called in
and quickly received
so this family of three
found their hunger relieved.

And I heard Mrs. Mouse say
As she turned out the light
I guess we won’t be going
To Lessons & Carols tonight!

Let the Baking Begin!

Lemon Curd Pound Cake

I've had the recipe for this cake since '04, but haven't had a good opportunity to try it out. It's not a particularly outstanding recipe, but the embellishments are a definite repeat for holiday seasons to come. I made the lemon curd and poured it over the top; and seriously, lemon curd is not hard to make, do not pay an arm and a leg for store bought. And then, I took rosemary and brushed on a some warm corn syrup and sprinkled it with plain sugar. It really does look like snow covered fir branches! For the cranberries, just make a simple syrup in a saucepan and stir in berries. Keep them in the saucepan until they begin to swell, and then remove onto wax paper and sprinkle with sugar. Add some lemon rind for a clue to the flavor, and voila'! Instant oohs and aahs.