Okay, I never intended to just drop out of sight, without a peep, a word, a warning. I didn’t see it coming. I could blame my daughter’s 5th birthday, visitors, the lead up to Christmas, lots of things. The first week I disappeared, I was busy decorating my daughter’s birthday cake on the day that I usually write. She has fallen in love with the movie “My Neighbor Totoro” and had a showing of the film for her party. I never would have agreed to a movie themed birthday party, but this film is especially lovely. If you haven’t seen it, check it out. Here is the cake I made, an accomplishment I am quite proud of.
After the birthday party was over, I looked up and realized I had just a few short weeks to get organized for Christmas. In some ways I am lucky that the garden has slowed down to a snail’s pace. I haven’t had to water it in weeks and I just go out and check that it is still there every few days, do some weeding, and try to figure out what is nibbling on the Brassicas.
The garden may be slow, but I will be here. My son’s birthday isn’t until March, so I don’t expect to be distracted by another cake decorating extravaganza until then.
Hope your holiday season was joyful. Happy New Year!
Growing Up in the Garden 
Oh my goodness, Totoro is an old favourite in our house; your cake turned out perfectly! Birthday wishes to your daughter and all the best for 2013. Glad to know that you are ‘still here’!
I don’t know a single person who has seen the film that doesn’t love it! I wish they made more children’s movies like it. We also have Ponyo in our collection. Glad to be back!
One of my family’s favorite movies as well. That is one awesome cake. How did you make Totoro? Marzipan? Truly amazing. My son peered over my shoulder and asked, “Mom, can you make one of those cakes?” I replied I don’t think so. He said, “How about a soot gremlin then?” To that I said, maybe.
Hi and thanks! I wish I could say I made Totoro out of marzipan or fondant, but my talent (and patience) has its limits ;). Totoro, as well as the other figurines, are plastic, ordered from Amazon. I have seen many a fondant Totoro online, so know it can be done. But, I decided to save my sanity and not attempt it. Soot gremlin cupcakes, on the other hand are quite easy, though a little unsightly smeared across the mouths of the little ones. Black frosting and sprinkles, and candy eyes.
Thanks for taking the time to comment. It brought a smile to my face!