Let Them Eat Cake

I was surprised with a gift this week; a brand new Kitchen Aid mixer! It is now the nicest thing in my kitchen, by far. There are several special things about this gift. Firstly, and probably least on the list, it was a REAL surprise. I had no idea it was coming and I pride myself in being difficult to surprise. I am on the nosy side and tend to be the one organizing the gifts which limits surprises. Secondly, it came out of the sacrifice from a beloved group of friends. Andrew and I have hosted a weekly Bible study for almost 5 years, missing only a handful of weeks when trips were taken or babies were born. We convene for food and encouragement each Tuesday and this motley collection of saints has become a touchstone in our week. The reality that our home is too small to comfortably fit 20 people has been resisted by all of us, but the fact it undeniable. In a few weeks, half of this collection of faithful saints will start meeting elsewhere, leaving us more room and a group of about half the size. A bittersweet change for everyone. I love my new mixer. It's closest cousin in my kitchen is a sad whisk. But I receive it with a heavy heart.

In honor of our friends, the kids and I decided to dirty up the shiny contraption at the first possible opportunity. The accompanied cook book was poured over; each sweet option weighed. We settled on Double Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Glaze. The decision making process was....

"Shall we make Lemon Chiffon Bars, or Walnut Raisin Cake, or Pound Cake, or Double Choco.."
"THE DOUBLE CHOCOLATE ONE MOM!!!"