One of this year’s low points – the flan disaster
One question about my cake project I get asked frequently is, “Are you sick of it yet?” Back in January or February, I’d have said no. Now, seven months in, my honest answer is “Yes! Is 2013 here yet?” However, baking seven months worth of weekly cakes just doesn’t have the same ring to it as a year does, so I must press on.
But not before having myself a little rant.
I was flattered by all the feedback I initially received, but didn’t expect I’d be asked to share, as if I have a few pieces of freshly baked cake with me at all times. Transporting cakes is a tricky thing, especially when you don’t own a car and live three long avenues from the nearest subway station (as I do). So I only share cake with people I really, really like. Unfortunately not everyone falls into that category.
“Hey, my birthday is in [fill in the month].” I could use a five-pound bag of sugar for each time I’ve heard that. “Really? That’s great! You should bake a cake for yourself,” is what I’ve taken to replying. I’m a blogger, not a caterer or baker for hire (or for free). I’m mostly a baker for myself.
I appreciate when acquaintances ask, “How’s the cake going?” I’m flattered they’ve remembered my project and are thoughtful enough to ask. Sometimes I’d rather talk about the weather or a local sports team.
When I go to a dinner party, I’m expected to bring cake, which I love to bring. But sometimes I’d love to know the convenience of visiting a local bakery and picking something up instead.
I long for weekends spent watching endless hours of reality television in my pajamas without a to-do list of baking and blogging hanging over my head. I dream of what it was like to come home from work, put my feet up, and play games on my iPad without my conscience calculating how many weeks behind I am on posts (two at the moment).
I miss pie! I make great pies. I make great cookies, cupcakes, and cake balls. None have a place in this project, so I don’t bother to make them because I should be focusing on cake.
So with all my gripes about this project in mind, I’m looking forward to enjoying sugar-free leisure time in the future. For now, it’s back to the kitchen.