Golem in the Cake

"Golem in the Gears" Birthday Cake

This cake was commissioned by Richie and Carol for their dad and husband Rick Larson.  We happen to have some of the best neighbors in the world and this family has been my biggest fanclub outside of my kids.  With each new cake attempt, the first thing the kids say is, "You have to show Richie!"  So it wasn't long before they asked me to make a cake for their Dad's birthday, which I was thrilled to do.  Those of you who know my own Dad will understand when I say that I feel great comfort living next door to a man of the same high caliber; they would get along great.  I thought, after all the fun I had making this modeling chocolate woodland scene, that I would have a hard time letting it go, but actually I was very happy to give it to them with my whole heart.  They truly deserve it after putting up with my neclected yard for so long!

The cake theme was taken from Rick's favorite Piers Anthony novel from the Xanth series.  They requested the same Crazy Good Banana Pound cake that I made for the Tangled Tower.  This one had 3 layers because I love any excuse for extra banana cream filling!  The multicolored marshmallow fondant for the book cover was my first attempt at homemade.  I found myself really glad to have so many leaves and figures to cover all my mistakes!  It tasted better than the storebought stuff so I will definitely try it again.  I actually scared myself a little when I finished those piercing eyes on my toad.  I could feel a little empathy for poor Golem Grundy.  I only had a chance to read an excerpt of  "Golem in the Gears" in between making leaves and my baby slug (under the mushrooms on the right), but I think I am going to have to ask to borrow it.

I really meant to keep these blog posts short and sweet, but I can't leave off without giving due credit to my amazing children for keeping up with my mess.  My daughter Janae's skill surprised me when she took over cutting out the letters, made my favorite little curly red leaves, and the icky awesome earthworm.  Also, thanks to Richie and Carol for encouraging me, challenging me, and making me take some of your money!  I really do need more cake $tuff!