My love of cooking has a direct link, naturally, my love of eating good food. And that colorfully picture of a delicious looking plate draws me in like none other. Can we go to a restaurant where the menu has pictures, please? 

This brings me to Pioneer Woman. If you’re not sure who I’m talking about, well, what kind of housekeeper are you?? (notice I didn’t say housewife. Being single just means you have even more time to cook good food :-)) Really, it’s ok though. Maybe just stay far away from her blog/cookbooks/food. 

Stawberry Sparkle Cake. My family just might remember something about this dessert. I’ve had to wait for some time to even talk about this to let my heart heal a little. I mean, really,how can you mess something up that has step-by-step picture directions. If you looked at the link, WARNING: Do not even be tempted. Or if you give it a go, don’t come to me for consolation when your efforts are in vain. The first step in this recipe is to make an angel food cake from scratch. Enough said. Buy the box mix, just give in and buy it! 

I like to bake in my Mom’s kitchen. She has every ingredient under the sun, all the right sized baking dishes, and of course she’s just a shout away when things start looking scary. Part way through the process my Dad suggested I just make a big trifle out of the whole thing. I probably glared a little. 

Yes, yes the cake ended in a trifle with the jello part (supposed to be inside the cake) mixed around it, layered with whipped cream. It really did taste pretty good, but looked like a 6 year old was aloud to play in the kitchen for a day. Dad, you were right. I’ll admit it. And maybe just start out making a trifle next time. 

When I found myself seriously considering another recipe on Pioneer Woman’s blog, I wasn’t sure I wanted to go through the heartbreak again. I called my mom, “I kinda want to bake something. It’s on Pioneer Woman’s blog. Should I even try?” But, look at those pretty pictures! How could I resist trying these Sweet Rolls? I won’t admit how much I paid for my little carton of blueberries. Wait till they’re in season, maybe? 

But this time, sweet success. Truly sweet with just a hint of lemon and blueberry. 

Pioneer Woman I might keep looking at your pictures and giving in to my idea that I can create art in the kitchen.