August - Cake Decorating

Following on from my creative flow I thought I would give cake decorating a go. It's something I have wanted to do for many years. I've always felt like I don't have a hobbies or skills that was mine. Other than a good work ethic I don't think have anything that someone would say I am good at. Cake decorating always looked like an impressive achievement. Not to mention it's very useful when birthdays and Christmas roll around.

As luck would have it I had a friend that needed a cake for their mum. No pressure. There wasn't really any good photos I could take of the process. It was messy and lots of trial and error. I followed you tube videos on piping and read blogs on rolled icing. I did cheat by buying the cake sponge. I did make the cupcakes from scratch though. The design ideas came from Pinterest, but I convinced myself the use of technology was the same as partnership working. After all, even the best pastry chefs had to take lessons. I couldn't find any local groups to learn so the internet was the next best thing. Much like the cutting and sticking, I found the process quite relaxing. I had to concentrate on what I was doing so was very much in the moment. Staying present on what I was doing meant that all the stress of work was forgotten.

Now I might not win bake off but I am impressed with myself. This was more my talent than the arts a crafts. It took a few practice runs on the piping but I think with time I could get it to perfection. I'm told it even tasted decent too. From this experience I've learned that all mistakes can be hidden with chocolate and edible glitter. I also bought the fancy boxes to give me a level of legitimacy. So also learned, its important to look the part. It really does make it seem as though you belong if you're dressed up to fit in.