In High School, I mastered the art of “Box Cake Making.”  During college, I wanted to master cake decorating.  Well, after letting go of the hydrogenated oils, it was necessary for me to make cakes from scratch – the box cakes are so much easier, but at this age, health is important.  Needless to say, my first attempt at making a cake from scratch was embarrassing – one aunt called that cake a “Cornbread Cake.”  This would encourage anyone to move on to something else – but not me!

In looking back, my initial motivation to bake was prompted by that old saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but after my Cornbread Cake experience, I was motivated by the desire to redeem myself and to ultimately perfect the art of cake making.

Sometimes, we as people have a tendency to see the “talented-few” that have multiple giftings and can play multiple instruments, and then we see ourselves as anything but talented.  But I remember hearing years ago about Michael Jordan, who only reached greatness by missing a whole lot of shots, and then practicing until he missed less.  For me with cakes, photography, and whatever else I put my mind to, I don’t always succeed on the first or second try, but I keep at it, and I don’t give up!  It has taken several cakes to get to the success I’ve had recently, but I did not give up – though it would have been easier and cheaper.

The last thing I want to share is that success is often a gradual process.  I should not expect a cake that I could charge $40 for on my first try… Let me start with the cake that I can sell at the Bake Sale for $5, and then work my way up.  But no matter what, DON’T GIVE UP!

See my latest Strawberry Cake with Strawberry Frosting and Strawberries on Top…