Yesterday was my Grandma's birthday, so I dedicated my afternoon to her, the wonderful woman whose example and love influences me every day.
I did so by baking my first of many traditional cakes in honor of her birthday. This was my first layer cake, along with my first attempt at making White Mountain frosting. Though a daunting task, these were both staples in Grandma's repertoire, and I considered it fitting to begin my development of my own "skills born of experience" on her birthday.
Sadly, the cake layers had difficulty releasing from the pan, and my first go with White Mountain frosting was a disaster, but end result was satisfying. I felt a little blue that I wasn't able to share the cake with anyone who knew my Grandma personally, but I loved sharing my cake with roommates and neighbors and telling them a little about CJP.
While I baked (which involved extensive scraping of hardened sugary syrup from pans and bowls and mixers) I listened to the recently broadcast General Relief Society Meeting, which reminded me of the love and beauty that was such a part of her. I also turned on some instrumental jazz in her honor.
I think that Grandma would have enjoyed the afternoon in my kitchen. I know I did.
I have also enjoyed many snacks (and a lunch) of cake since yesterday. So delicious.