Ace of Cupcakes

New Blog

2008-12-08T17:03:00.000-08:00

K Guys!!! I am way stoked about my new blog. It's still in the works, but from now on you can find me at www.aceofcupcakes.squarespace.com, or at the link below:

Ace of Cupcakes

A Christmas Survey

2008-12-08T14:27:00.000-08:00

I stole this survey from Greedy Kristian's blog, you guys should do it too....

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper. When I was little my friend said her parents never wrapped any of their gifts, and I was so sad for her. Opening them is the best part!

2. Real tree or Artificial? Artificial. Derek and I both concluded we would kill a real tree.

3. When do you put up the tree? We were so excited to put ours up this year....it was up a week before Thanksgiving. I'm still glad we did it.

4. When do you take the tree down? This is our first year having it....so as long as Derek will let me ;D

5. Do you like eggnog? Never tried it....It sounds revolting though.

6. Favorite gift received as a child? I'm not gonna lie, Gennie always got the better gift. So the best Christmas was when Gennie got Mall Madness. We played that game till the pieces fell apart. But...I can't deny, I loved my American Girl doll too. That was probably the best.

7. Hardest person to buy for? My dad.....we always ended up getting him licorice or buttermilk.

8. Easiest person to buy for? Derek. He always wants a million different things, which is nice.

9. Do you have a nativity scene? No, we went way over budget on Christmas decor this year....we will have to add that one next year.

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? None so far. Email sounds good to me though.

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? That one Christmas we have on video where Gennie got a million huge presents, and I showed off my stick on earrings, dollar store markers, and yarn that I got from Santa. Haha, that one didn't seem too good :D

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Home Alone. I've already watched it 3 times this year. Elf is a close second.

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Mid-November.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Probably, I was always broke as a kid, haha.

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? I'll have to agree with Kristin, Fondue. Our Christmas Eve fondue party could win a fondue award. But I'm a big sucker for xmas drinks: Sparkling Cider, wassail, and hot cocoa.

16. Lights on the tree? For sure!

17. Favorite Christmas songs? Yeah, probably O Holy Night, Candles in the Window, or Come Thou Fount, (I think that is a Christmas song)

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? We usually travel around New Years.

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Rudolph, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen. That's all I got. Haha!

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Star. Man...remember mom's angel? That thing was weird lookin'.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? One present or pajamas on Christmas eve, the rest on Christmas Day.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? All the scrooges. Bah-humbug.

23. Favorite ornament theme or color? We got to buy all new ornaments for our tree, so my favorite is this gold one that looks like a Mascaraed mask, it's pretty cool.

24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? Christmas dinner, we never really did anything. Usually just the Christmas Eve fondue.

25. What do you want for Christmas this year? Hmm....probably clothes or cooking stuff. I never really know. I am just excited for my first Christmas with my babes, it's already been awesome.

P.S. Krick, thanks that was fun. And I DO hope you get the Beyonce CD. Just keep it on mute while I'm around ;D

Animal Farm.

2008-12-05T14:42:00.000-08:00

Some animal cupcakes from today. The demand for time-consuming cupcakes is getting larger at So Cupcake, at least it's keeping me entertained.....

The Gingershop.

2008-12-04T13:52:00.000-08:00

Here is our store, Gingerbread version. Isn't it cute? I made it at work today (When I realized....wow, my job rocks sometimes.)

At least it looks better than my usual Gingerbread house messes (They typically look like a bomb shelter). I think the color-coordination helped a lot ;)

Well, Derek and I are already obsessed with the Christmas season, we are sewing our own stockings and it has taken weeks to this point. We are almost finished, at which point I'll give ya'll some pics.

All we need is some friggin' SNOW!!!

THE 5k.

2008-12-02T13:57:00.000-08:00

Derek and I have been training for the Thanksgiving 5k for months now. The only problem is this we stopped running like the beginning of November, so we ended up being nowhere near ready. The 5k finally came, on Thanksgiving FREEZING morning. We ended up having quite the crowd, with me, Derek, his sister Mary and cousins Mitch and Kristen, my mom and Kent, and my two bros. Jonathan, my oldest brother who none of us knew even ran, showed up, which was a nice surprise. Little did any of us know HE would be the one that would beat all of us! He ran it in 27 minutes, far faster than the rest of us.

Derek ran it in 29 minutes, I did it in 32, which, for me, was GREAT! I have never officially run a 5k, so the fact that I ran the whole thing was enough for me.

Anyways, we all had a real blast, although we missed Gen and Kristin, who always run it. Mary and Kristen won some raffle prizes, although some of them were a little cheap ;D ha! At least it wasn't the free entry to the Salt Lake City marathon, I feel sorry for the poor runners that won those......

I'll say now that all of us look much prettier than these pictures in real life. So excuse the no make-up and sweats.

Me, Derek, Mary, Kristen, Mitch.

Mom and I at the starting line. I'm not gonna lie mom, we both can look really bad, haha.... (This was taken only moments before I dropped my iphone and got trampled by the crowd)

We all really missed Gen, but it helped when my mom read her running number #753....Gen's lucky number. Quite the coincidence if you ask me!

All of us. BOY do I look pissed! I don't know why. But thanks everyone for coming, especially Derek's family, that was SO much fun to have you guys there, I hope we can run another 5k sometime!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-26T16:02:00.000-08:00

I'm not gonna lie, I'm READY for Thanksgiving to be over. Bring on Christmas!!

As of Lately.

2008-11-18T14:06:00.001-08:00

I can't believe Derek isn't home for another 3 hours. He just got his hours changed from 8 to 5, to now 9 to 6. You wouldn't think that one hour would make such a difference, but it's dark now when he gets home, and by that time I'm pretty lonely. Aw shucks =(

On another note:

Asher, he is cuter than ever.

Some cool rainbow cupcakes:

Shield the eyes of the children!! I was asked to make boob cupcakes last week. On a side note, the same day I made these I burned my own "cleavage" when I was taking some cupcakes out of the oven. How awkward is that??

A cute lemon meringue:

D-lish Strawberry cheesecake cupcakes:

This lady wanted her cupcakes "El Natural", with rocks and twigs and stuff:

And some apple-crumb muffins I made yesterday on my day off. FAMILY: come get some if you want some. They are really yummy for breakfast, and I am pretty sure I have like 40 of them left. I went a little overboard.

Kids: They're a lot of work........But they're worth it.

2008-11-10T16:25:00.000-08:00

So....Jonathan and Kylie abandoned all of us here in Salt Lake to celebrate their 10th anniversary in Hawaii -- (Holy crap! That's impressive.)

A while ago they asked if on my day off, I could watch Basil with Kelsy.

The long awaited day arrived today. I picked up Kels and Basil and we drove to Target to play around and pick up some Christmas ornaments. (Side note: I have had the BEST time shopping for Christmas. This is the first married Christmas for Derek and I, and the first time I get to decorate my own tree. It's the bomb!)

Right when we got to target, within seconds Basil was running around enjoying himself. Here are some of our favorite parts of the experience:

The first thing Basil encountered at Target was a big Dinosaur toy that growled. Here was his reaction. Haha, we were dying:

He was pretty scared of that thing.

Then, after seeing him so traumatized, we let him pick out a drink to take off the edge :) Basil, being a good boy, picked a Sobe.This is the part where Basil WOULD NOT let go of the cart. He had to be the one pushing it. This is when I learned, Basil likes to be in charge ;)
This is when I had to pull him away from the bars and sit him in the cart. He stared at Kelsy and I like this for about 10 minutes. I think we were starting to bug him.
Here was Basil's favorite toy at Target. The advent calendar, which he refused to leave until he had opened every door. Haha!
THEN. We met up with Derek for some lunch at Eat-a-Burger. As Jonathan already knows, Basil is a pretty big Fry Sauce connaisseur. We accidentally set the fry sauce by him to dip his fries in it, and he started scooping it with his fork. He did this three times till we finally got it away. Oops.

The result of taking away the fry sauce:

We finally realized what Basil LOVES to do when we popped in the Baby Einstein video. He was so focused on this movie. It was the BEST!!

Jonathan and Kylie: I hope that this blog didn't traumatize you too much, we tried our best. But thanks so much for letting us watch him, cause despite being a little afraid, I had a TOTAL ball. I love Basil!!

If someone asks, this is where I'll be.........

2008-11-05T13:12:00.000-08:00

Item #1- A moving couple of days. I never realized how empowering voting is. I told everyone I wasn't going to do it, because I didn't feel like my vote really counted, seeing as in Utah, no matter what, the republican candidate is going to win. Although I still felt that way, a push from my husband and the reporters on CNN....and I was in the booth. Suddenly I feel very, very grateful for our freedom. Our country is pretty amazing.

Item #2- I used to hate the snow. HATE. I probably still do, but today's snow storm couldn't have been more enjoyable. Because it was getting kind of bad, my boss let me go home early from work, and I got to go to lunch with Derek and then come home and lay under mounds of blankets. It's been really nice.

Item #3- I got a package in the mail, and I couldn't remember ordering anything. I opened it to find the roulette wheel that failed to make it to our Halloween party.

A picture of the jerk:

The Casino Del Candy.

2008-11-03T08:02:00.000-08:00

I have already put up a ton of pictures on Facebook, that most everyone saw, but I wanted to explain a few highlights of our Halloween Party, a.k.a. "Casino del Candy."

Highlight #1 - We had a pie on the counter that Basil couldn't reach, nonetheless, he figured out that if he used his sword to scrape off the frosting, he could eat some of it. We all found him like this....and despite us laughing hysterically that he had been clever enough to do this, he just stood staring at the wall like he is in the picture for about 5 minutes. He looked like he was thinking, "I just killed a pie...."

Highlight #2- The Candy Gambling. We had a Black Jack table that Kristin made, it looked authentic, and a Roulette table I found online. Everyone got loads of candy to take home, it was a blast. (Note Derek's dads nerd costume at the Black Jack table...it was awesome.)

Highlight #3- The Best Costumes: Randy and Kristin came as Dave Thomas and Wendy. It was perfect for them. Also see Asher balling in his Shrek outfit. It too was perfect.

So I have loads of other pictures, but here are some I couldn't help but put up:

I LOVED Basil's Knight costume. It was so perfect for him.

Derek decided to shave his head down the middle to be a munk. Haha, it was great.
No one could guess my costume, I was a Japanese Anime Character, I guess it works ;)

Jake (Derek's bro) and his wife Denae- Geishas, and a little risky...haha....

This costume was so great. The deer costume was like this machine that constantly blew air into it. Too difficult for me to understand how it worked, but not for me to enjoy it.

Jonathan made this awesome robot costume. I still can't get over it. And Kylie- the Pirate.

Anyways: To everyone that came: THANKS! I am glad everyone had fun.

Gen and KC: We missed you guys, but fondue at Christmas is going to beat it out of the park.

Um....The Best Popcorn Balls....EVER.

2008-10-30T16:38:00.000-07:00

3/4 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup butter
2 tsp. cold water
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup Marshmellow fluff (or Marshmellows)
1/2 tsp. Vanilla

2 bags popcorn (popped)

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the corn syrup, butter, cold water, powdered sugar, marshmallow fluff, and vanilla. Heat and stir until the mixture comes to a boil. Boil for one minute stirring constantly. Carefully combine the hot mixture with the popcorn, coating each kernel.

2. Wearing gloves, or ziplock bags over your hands, grease hands with butter/oil and quickly shape the coated popcorn into balls before it cools. Wrap with cellophane or plastic wrap and store at room temperature.

* I made these today.....they are SO good!

I'm sad.

2008-10-29T14:12:00.000-07:00

I ordered a roulette table for our party - for Candy Casino. It's going to be a freakin' blast, but only if it gets here on time. I just found out the wheel might not get here in time :( But don't worry, it'll still be a ball!

Here is a new cupcake: (Kinda blurry)

This is Halloween......

2008-10-27T07:10:00.000-07:00

First of all: This is mainly for Derek's family, or my family if you haven't done it yet. Before I forget: The link to register for the Thanksgiving 5k is right here.

Alright, to business...So, I have never carved a cake before in my life. Meaning, you stack a tall cake, and carve it into a unique shape. A man called last week asking us to make a 3-Dimensional Witches Hat Cake. I'm not going to lie-- I was pretty worried. So the fact that it didn't fall apart was enough for me:

Also, here is a Halloween Cupcake cake I decorated:

And some musical-note cupcakes:

And lastly: We are having a Halloween Party on Friday, so Kristin and I finally combined our candies for the party into one large pile, we were all overjoyed when it was so big. I decided these pictures really don't do it justice:

We threw the pile of candy bags on Basil - he of course was loving it! So cute.

The Monster Cupcake.

2008-10-24T13:54:00.000-07:00

So...I can't take credit for this one, because my boss Kevin at work invented it, but it was still too cute to not put up. We got a bunch of gummy tongues, fingers, ears, noses, etc to decorate our cupcakes with, so he came up with this masterpiece:

They sold out in a matter of minutes today. The best part was that all of the kids were loving them, but when we showed Celina (My boss's daughter) the Monster Cupcake, she said in a very unamused voice, "Ha ha. Very funny." Ha, it was great....

SIDE NOTE: I lost my wedding ring for over a week. Most of you probably know this and most of you probably know I found it. I just have to thank King of Queens for inspiring me to find it. After a very melancholy week without it, I was watching the episode where she almost buys a new ring but decides she can't live without her original one....and it made me so depressed that I rummaged through the whole house and found it hidden nicely in one of my dresser drawers! SO HAPPY.

Sunday Nights Can Be Traumatizing.

2008-10-20T10:34:00.000-07:00

Since Derek and I obviously live alone together, we have no parents to boss us around. No one tells us to stop doing one thing and start doing the next. No one tells us when to go to bed, or that we should probably eat something healthy for dinner. As a result, we end up indulging in a number of unhealthy things, completely unaware of what the outcome may be. Let me paint a lil' picture for ya.

Last night. Derek and I were burned out from our long week (as we usually are), so we decided to have dinner at home and catch up on Heroes.

(Our favorite character, as I am sure he is to many -- maybe its the Japanese thing, ha, but he reminds me a lot of Derek, I feel like Kelsy would agree). Anyways, we really wanted to finish Season 1, so we ended up watching 5 HOURS worth.

We felt pathetic (yet satisfied) at the end, so what do we do? Watch more T.V. We turned on the Food Network and they were showing a challenge called "Cereal Bridges". It was so awesome to see them make the Brooklyn Bridge, etc. out of cereal. So much that we decided to make some Muddy Buddies to eat while watching. We made a whole box worth and ate about half of it. No need to explain the bellyaches that ensued.

We went to bed to settle our stomachs and turned on the TV to help us get a little more tired. With no help to our stomachs (in a nice way) the next two ours would change our lives. First: we watched a documentary on the "Treeman". This was the story of a man who had a disease that had gotten so bad, his hands and legs had turned into this:

He had 6 lbs. of this fungus/wart on each hand/foot. Don't get me wrong, it was a very very sad story. But the doctor's were able to get rid of 90% of the warts, so that was good. I was in tears for this one.

I was in tears for the next one too. We ended up watching a SECOND documentary called "The Man with No Face":

I was deeply depressed after these two shows, really gives you some perspective on life. It was amazing that these two men had actually quite optimistic views on life. It is crazy that both of them live normal lives with bodies like this. I no longer have any need to complain. The only sad part about this one, was the guy was Jehovah's Witness and couldn't receive blood, so they could only remove small parts at at time (We never got to see that part)...

As you can see, Derek and I were pretty traumatized at the end of the night, getting to bed at about 12:30 - 1:00 a.m. (Pretty late for us, haha).

All I can say: Wow.

2 Years and Counting.....

2008-10-15T14:51:00.000-07:00

As of yesterday, Derek and I have been together 2 years. Yeah, to a lot of people that's a pretty short time, but still, I think it's worth some acknowledgment.

In order to celebrate, I cooked him the competition meal I made in high school, and we had a really great dinner. Then, I wanted to check if I had written anything in my journal about our first kiss, and we read about the whole thing. It was quite hilarious to see how nervous we were. I am surprised we made it this far, because we are both very prone to awkwardness.

Derek and I often say we had high-hopes for marriage, and it more than surpassed our hopes so far. I blame a lot of how good it is on account of Derek's amazingness. If I come home exhausted he's already massaging my feet. If I'm feeling sick he's got miso soup on the stove. If I just need to talk, he knows what to say. And if he doesn't, he knows to let me talk anyways. If I say I think I might want a new car, he's got four picked out he thinks I'd like. If I crack a stupid joke, he's the one the gets it.

When I pictured who I would end up with, I'm not going to lie, it wasn't at all like Derek. To be honest, I didn't know there was someone out there so good for me. It really seems like he was handpicked. I had no idea that almost a year in of living together, I would still be anxious for him to come home, cause we consistently have a blast.

Babes: Thanks for being brave enough to ask me out back then, thanks for being patient with me through school, thanks for scraping off my car everytime I left your house, thanks for getting addicted to nighttime television with me, thanks for surviving the food fight, thanks for living with me, and running with me, and laughing with me, and loving me, etc, etc. Thanks, you'll never know how much I love you for it.

Playing Soccer Mom.

2008-10-09T13:38:00.000-07:00

Derek and his family are big into soccer. When I say big, I mean BIG. It seems like every night of the week some one in the family has a soccer game, if not three. This year they decided to do an outdoor team with all of the cousins....it added up to like fifteen people.

Well, Derek has school on the nights they play, so he had only been able to play one game. But Wednesday was the championship game, so he played what I would call "healthy hookie" and joined in for the game.

I, being athletically handi-capped, sat on the side lines to enjoy the game. It was a lot of fun to watch, not only because all of his family was playing, but because they are all actually really good. Needless to say, they won the championship. (Woo hoo!)

I had run out of time to bring orange slices and Capri Suns for half-time, so they had to settle with cupcakes (I am sure everyone is getting sick of them by now).....

Anyways....here is Derek's Rec-League Picture:

(The plaque-version is in the mail as we speak ;)

And here is the entire team (I accidentally deleted the non-blurry picture). Derek looks like he's mid-teleporting.

Congrats guys!!

Adventures in Babysitting.

2008-10-07T13:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my day off, and after lunch with Derek my day was looking pretty free. I hadn't seen Ozzy in about 2 weeks, and I was about to have heart attack. I called up Malia and asked if I could babysit him for a couple of hours. (Anyone who knows me knows that I haven't babysat in YEARS. What inspired me to ask this? I don't know. I'm crazy.)

So....Malia drove him over at about 3:00, and he was going to stay till 5:00. But the second Malia even thought of leaving, Ozzy started crying HYSTERICALLY and totally freaking out. I was about to say "Wait! I can't do this!" When I heard the door slam and realized that I was alone with a balling 10-month-old baby.

I had pulled a few "toys" aside(below), meaning the few things in our apartment a kid could suck on or that involved buttons...and let Ozzy play with them. However, the crying didn't end until one brilliant idea popped into my head: Guitar Hero.

I propped Ozzy on my lap and played guitar hero, while he helped me strum. He wouldn't let us stop playing for the next 1 1/2 hours. (I had no idea a baby could stay interested in this so long!) He was laughing the whole time, it was a major blast. Us playing G-Hero:

Here are some pictures of the great time Ozzy had using our (Mainly Derek's) toys:

The Disney Channel on the big screen:

Ozzy with his new fav. toy:

And last, but not least, the Rubik's cube:

Two-faced.

2008-10-06T11:44:00.000-07:00

An almost-bride came into our work asking us to do a cupcake cake that was half decorated pretty for a wedding, and half decorated with a golfing theme. I guess the groom was obsessed with golfing, you would assume, and she wanted to rub it in a bit. I was a little intimidated, but it was fun to make nonetheless.

That was the best picture I got of it.

Then...we had conference weekend, so of course we went to my moms and had her D-licious homemade donuts. YUM. Basil was in the weirdest mood ever, crawling on his head all over the floor, he was really being quite hilarious.

I said CHEESE, and his reaction was a little odd when he gave me this smoldering look:

Then we went to Desmond's baby blessing, which was a lot of fun to see Derek's whole family, since many of them were in town for a wedding. I wish I had gotten some pics, but it was a little too crazy there. Good food though! Ah....sweet and sour wings.....

I guess that's it for today, I hope for your sake something more exciting happens this week......

From the Cupcake Deck....

2008-10-02T13:57:00.000-07:00

Some cupcake updates from the store:

These were for an Alice and Wonderland themed birthday party.....

For a very particular 2-year-old's birthday party.....

For Halloween of course!

(I actually came up with this one, yay!)
Chocolate cake, filled with chocolate ganache, with Butterscotch frosting

A Cure for the Pedi-Cure.

2008-09-30T14:51:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in almost a week because, well, NOTHING has happened. The majority of my last week had been spent engorged in the first book I have read it 5 years. Other than Harry Potter, that is. I don't know if its even the choice of book, as it is the excitement of enjoying reading again. Its fabulous!

SO....my boss does trade with a local day spa. She got a few gift certificates, and so she gave me one to use as I wanted. I decided to get a pedicure with the money, because I love pedicures. Since the certificate was for $90, I figured I could invite Kels and Kristin to go. But when I called to schedule an appointment, the lady informed me that it was $60, and that it would last 1 1/2 hours. I had NO idea how a pedicure could last an hour and a half.

So, I went solo, and I was actually nervous to go, because I didn't know what to expect. Were they going to pour hot wax over my legs or make me sit in a mudbath for an hour???

The first hour was absolutely amazing. They were very attentive and put on the most amazing wax stuff with hot towels....it was like sweet candy. Sorry, it was that good.

But when the lady put on the base coat and left me for 15 minutes, and then put on another coat, 15 minutes, etc.... I got a little anxious.

To make an amazingly LONG, tiring, boring, 150-pages of my book, uncomfortable chair, where-did-the-lady-go story short: I was there a total of 2 hrs. 30 minutes.

HOLY CRAP.

As I left all I could think was "I'm not cut out for this". I was exhausted and mad, the opposite of how you should feel after leaving a day spa. Not to gripe, but half of it was the time, and I can't help but admit that I am just not the day spa type.

That'll do for the next few years.....

The Littles.

2008-09-24T17:56:00.000-07:00

I knew I loved my nephews, but until last night, I didn't realize how truly addicted to them I am.

I was sitting at home watching some Biggest Loser with Derek, when Kelsy called to let me know Ozzie was coming over to my mom's house. Next thing I knew I was in my car driving like a madman to my mom's house. I got there at 7:30 hoping to be home by 8:00. When Oz wasn't there by 9:00 I was getting stressed and emotional, but couldn't leave before I saw the little guy (who isn't so little anymore). I thought to myself, "What's wrong with me?!?! I am obsessed! He's probably going to be grumpy anyway, I better leave."

But I couldn't get myself to go....and I'm glad I didn't. Here is what showed up:

I have always hated children. I can only say that, because it is the truth. I couldn't stand them. The few times I babysat as a child, the mom would come home to me dead asleep on the couch while their children played with a variety of dangerous things in the corner. I have had many a bad experience babysitting.

I never thought I would have kids. Other parents would explain that when you have a kid you finally realize what unconditional love is like. After my nephews were born, I realized a little bit of that. I would do anything for these kids, and they can't even talk. It's funny to me that you can learn so much from someone who doesn't even know how to eat yet.

Being an aunt is one of the greatest things in my life. I love the littles!

What a Week!

2008-09-22T11:51:00.000-07:00

Last week was absolutely crazy. Saturday night we went to the Cheesecake Factory for Krick's birthday, and everyone there could physically see that I had burned myself out. Saturday was what really did me in.

I got up at 4:30 am for work, because I had a wedding cake and three other cakes to do. Not to mention all the other orders we had...so I knew it was going to be a long day. This was the first wedding cake that I was going to do solely by myself (a.k.a. without Derek's expertise)....so I worked my butt off all morning and can definitely say that when I left work I was feeling really accomplished.

Some pics of the crazy day:

THEN.....We had to go running after work, because as I have noticed, if you miss one day, it's hard to stay on schedule. So Derek and I went running....But there was one thing that made it all worth it:

Because I have been staying on task with running, I thought I would treat myself to my first pair of running shoes!

7 Minutes =).

2008-09-18T14:14:00.000-07:00

After a VERY stressful week that is only half-way over, I only have two words for you: BY GOLLY.

In the past few days I have spent shloads of money, hours and hours of work, and out done myself with stress just to end up with this measly photograph:

(There should have been others, but this was the only one I got)

A few weeks ago a friend of mine asked me to help out with Enrichment night with my old ward. I said yes, because she wanted me to show them how to decorate cupcakes, and well...I love cupcakes(Duh.) So, Monday I started buying stuff for the event. Tuesday I kept buying things and then started making the cupcake batter. But Wednesday, after I had continued to buy things, spent five hours making the cupcakes, frosting, and preparing everything, stressing about how much money I had blown and how scared I was to teach all of these people that are far older and wiser than me, got to the church late and THEN realized I had forgotten all the pastry bags --- I was on the verge of tears.

Apparently, I enjoy being overly honest. Anyways....

......Exactly here is when I realized there are two very crucial people in my life.

First. Just then my mom showed up, and after her help cooling me down and telling me I was being stupid, I felt a lot better. I got up there, stuttered the entire presentation, but nonetheless completed it, and then actually enjoyed teaching everyone and seeing them decorate cupcakes. It was a good time.

But I was still exhausted and stressed on the way home because I knew the apartment was the messiest I had ever left it. It was 10:00 as well and I had to get up at six the next morning. I was in a bad mood.

Until I walked in and saw the place spotless and Derek in the hallway standing there, cute as usual. It was so relieving to know I could just go to bed......

There are some people that just know you, know when you need a nudge or when you really just need a hand. Although yesterday shouldn't have been stressful, it really turned out to be. Sometimes I forget that there are people that truly care about me.... but I saw it yesterday and I really appreciated it. Thanks mom and Derek for making a crazy day into a livable one. You guys are the bomb.edu/gov

One Recipe You Just Have to Know.

2008-09-12T14:31:00.000-07:00

First of all, I am overwhelmed at the moment by how much I love my family. These people are way too fun. I was just reading Kelsy's blog, and it once again reminded me how lucky I am to have such great people around.

So....Last night I tried a recipe I got online a few months ago...and it turned out amazing, just like the several other times I made it. While devouring it, I thought to myself, "This recipe is definitely something to blog about."

(Now, this isn't a picture of the food we made, but it looks close enough. I'm not a very good food photographer, and I had to get your mouth watering.)

The recipe is for Sesame Chicken, but I'll simplify this and give you the breading recipe. Just cut up some chicken breast, marinate it in this mixture, and then deep fry it. This breading is so delicious, you can eat the chicken just like that, or it is also really good deep fried and then drizzled with a sesame or teriyaki sauce. Then serve it on some rice: MMM!!!

Marinade for 2 Chicken Breasts:

1 Tb Soy Sauce
A Few drops Sesame Oil (So mom won't be using this recipe)
2 Tb Flour
2 Tb Cornstarch
2 Tb Water
1/4 tsp Baking Powder
1/4 tsp Baking Soda
1 tsp Vegetable Oil

I highly recommend it if you like Sesame Chicken. Let me know what you think!

8 Mile.

2008-09-10T10:34:00.000-07:00

I don't know what happened. Part of it was working at a cupcake store. Part of it was the embarrassment of seeing people I haven't seen in years, wondering if they still recognize me. Most of it was that day I ate half a bag of beef jerky, 6 pieces of bacon, cheese toast, cup-a-noodle, all the left over candy in the candy jar, and a snickers ice cream bar. That was the tipper.

I, Hilary, have been inspired to run lately. Listen to me! Those of you who have even brought up the subject with me, know that I hate to run. Many people have tried to convert me to their running religion, but I have stood my ground. So what happened? Three weeks ago, I sat up off the couch, let the potato chip crumbs run to the floor... and proclaimed that it was FINALLY...time to get running.

Derek and I have been running three times a week, a mile each time. We run the whole mile, so for me -- this is a major success! Derek keeps saying he is shocked I have stayed motivated to do this for three weeks, but a lot of it is the entertainment of having Derek next to me, knowing that he's working just as hard as I am.

To date: We have run 8 miles total. I am officially proud of myself for getting out of my unhealthy slump and maybe even on my way to losing a few lbs.

To Derek: Thanks for doing this with me, and motivating me too! Yay us.

No Blues-berry.

2008-09-08T14:10:00.000-07:00

My mom asked me to pick Kelsy up from her Orthodontist appointment today -- she finally got her braces! Well...on the way home we decided she was definitely not feeling up to going to school. But, she was feeling good enough to come over and make some blueberry cupcakes with me. I tried a recipe for Sprinkle's cupcakes' frosting...and it was so scrumptious, Kels and I really loved it!

It's simple, but still really good. Here is the recipe:

1 cup soft butter
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp milk
1 tsp vanilla

1. In a bowl combine butter and sugar. Beat till blended and fluffy.
2.Add the milk and vanilla and beat for an additional 3 to 5 minutes or until smooth and creamy.

YUM!!

Kelsy lookin' good in the new braces!

Blueberry cupcakes, delish..

Question:

2008-09-05T14:18:00.001-07:00

Are my googly-eyes getting googlier?

Introducing baby Dez!

2008-09-04T20:00:00.001-07:00

Derek's sister Mary recently had a baby, and by recent, I mean last Sunday. We got a call at 9:00 a.m. that he had finally come, so we ran down to see him -- he is seriously SO cute. Derek and I decided that although he looks cute in pictures, he really does look even cuter in person.

He's the first grandson on both sides, which makes it all the more exciting. And even better, he's 1/4 Japanese, which of course is the best part. Here are some pics of baby Desmond:

Dez pretending to be an Eskimo.

Derek, the proud uncle.....

Derek's mom, Donna, couldn't get enough of him....

Me and Desmond, he looks bored, yet still cute.

P.S. Babies rock.

How To: Totally Depress Yourself.

2008-09-02T11:38:00.000-07:00

Kelsy demanded a new blog, and as you can see, I ALWAYS do what Kelsy tells me to do, lest I suffer the consequences.

P.S. I am eating the most STUPENDOUS Xtreme Airhead right now. OH.

Okay, so this week, Derek and I have been on a serious streak of watching totally depressing movies. This wasn't the plan, but we watched all the somewhat appealing movies we could find, and that was the result.

Here were the movies:

Eastern Promises: This was the least depressing of the depressing movies, which is sad to say because it was still really depressing.Viggo Mortensen plays a guy in the Russian Mafia -- it was done so well but the ending cut it a little short. Still, I think it was worth watching.

Atonement: Kiera Knightly and some other guy that I like but who knows his name. This movie made The Pursuit of Happiness look like a happy movie. Nothing good came of it. I'm glad we watched it though.

The Counterfeiters: We heard this had won the Academy Award for best foreign film last year, so we watched it. BOY did it deserve it. It was about a group of counterfeiters in the Holocaust, who were actually treated somewhat well. I loved the storyline, the characters, and even the subtitles weren't a problem. I really think anyone who loves movies should see this one. Just remember: Very depressing.

And lastly, Mean Creek: This is a movie about a group of teenagers that play a prank on a bully, and it goes terribly wrong. Pretty sure it was too depressing for my taste, not to mention the movie wasn't done very well either.

To sum up: After many tears, fights, and depression- Derek and I are ready for a few weeks of comedies. Any recommendations??

California: Day 3.

2008-08-28T15:00:00.000-07:00

I am getting really sick of posting about California. So, let's sum this up...

Derek and I got Pink's Hot Dogs. But you don't just GET a Pink's Hot Dog. You stand in line for 2 hours in the blaring sun outside the tiny building. Then you move an inch every 10 minutes. Then you order off the menu that consists of about 30 different kinds of dogs(it's insane). Then you order and pay $5 per hot dog(which is also a little insane to me). Then you sit and eat while you listen to your arteries clog, but you don't care....... Because the dog is such sweet nectar in your mouth, that you don't care if this is how you die. Then you leave, and suffer from the WORST stomach ache of your life.

Please, just take the time to look at the dog I'm holding. It's HUGE!

And lastly...the REAL topic of the day:

Some Quality Time with My Quality Man

Derek and I on the pier the last night, after getting some Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf hot vanillas. It was SO great, I love the beach at night. (Above: One of those "How did she get him" pictures...)

At sunset at Huntington Beach.

Derek and I at Nancy's. We are so lovin' on each other.

Babes: You are the best!! Thanks for all the good times in Cali, and here at home too. I love you!

California: Day 2.

2008-08-27T14:38:00.001-07:00

Continuing the epic vacation to day two. Which'll have to be....

The Fabulous Food

Derek and I decided that one of the main things we wanted to do on our trip was eat at some fun/fancy places.

First, I really really wanted to go venture out into the cupcake world, so we went to Yummy Cupcakes in Santa Monica:
I didn't get very many pictures at Yummy's, so these are a little crappy:

Kels and Kricken enjoying some of the cupcakes.

Overall, we weren't very impressed with the Yummy Cupcakes, so we continued our journey to Sprinkles in Beverly Hills. I had heard a lot of things about this place, and I thought it was too good to be true, and really just didn't want to like it.

After standing in a 30 minute line and tasting our lemon and chocolate-marshmallow cupcakes....there was no lying to myself, they were amazzzing. Here are some pics there:

Then, Derek and I decided we wanted to get some high-end sushi. We searched online and found a place called Koi, where all the celebrities go. We decided we'd check this place out, and despite the amazing atmosphere and the fact that the waiters treat you like kings, the sushi was pretty disappointing.

Hmm.....well I am thinking that there is probably too much food to cover in one day...so I'll continue tomorrow with more of the deliciousness, till then!

California: Day 1.

2008-08-26T15:14:00.000-07:00

So, I forgot to tell my blog readers that I was going to be in California for a week -- but then I remembered: most of the people that read my blog went with me to California.

Derek and I headed to California a week ago Saturday with my mom, Kent, Kristin, Asher, Jaaf, Kylie, Basil, Dano, and Kelsy. It was quite the group, which made for a TON of fun!

I thought I would divvy up our vacation in to categories, because being married to Derek has made me a nerd, so things like categorizing make me happy now.

First and Foremost: The BEACH!

We went to three different beaches. First was Redondo beach for McDonald's breakfast on the beach. The best part of the day was when we realized most of us had dressed accidentally in the colors of the rainbow. So, of course, we had to record the event via photos:

(The rainbow pics were taken by Kylie)

The Next Beach was Santa Monica. It was a little grimy, but nonetheless a blast. (Other than the fact that I was suffering with a huge head cold):

Kels and Basil beachin' it up.

The last and best was spent at Huntington Beach, where we swam for about 4 hours....

.......And then concluded the night by roasting Dogs/Bratwurst/Mallows in the fire pits using about 6" skewers. Despite the burns on our hands and the struggle to figure out how the H-E-Double-Hockey-Sticks we were going to do this -- it was one of the best parts of the trip.

The best Bratwurst, I can still taste it.

And the final sunset via Huntington beach:

Hi-LARD-o.

2008-08-15T14:08:00.000-07:00

When I was in 2nd grade we had a substitute teacher from Italy. I don't remember her name, but all day she called us by our names in Italian to bring some fun to the classroom. She kept calling me "Hilardo", and when I asked why, she explained that that was actually my name in Italian.

Hi-LARD-o?

It was hurtful, I won't lie. And has definitely stuck.

So today, I just had to confess, to make myself feel better: I just finished a can of Pringles all by myself.

This is a call for HELP: I am ready for an intervention!

Colonel Custard.

2008-08-14T17:17:00.000-07:00

SO. This was exciting for me, I don't know why, but it really was. I got to make a birthday cake for one of the Colonels up at Fort Douglas (I think that's it?? ha, sad) they wanted it to be an American Flag:

Pretty fun huh? Well....it was for me, heh.

And here's an afterthought for KC - not as good as yours, but still worth seeing....

Cupcake Update.

2008-08-11T08:30:00.000-07:00

This week at work we had to make dog-related cupcakes for a large dog-related fundraiser. I thought they turned out really cute, but I should add, our first few attempts at a poodle cupcake were horrible, so we exnayed the poodle.

Here is a Giant Cupcake Cake for a little girl's 1st birthday:

And some of our "Hostess" cupcakes:

Happiness is Tiring.

2008-08-08T14:01:00.000-07:00

Cheesy as it is I had a bonding moment with my radio today. I was excited to hear that one of my favorite songs was playing on 90.9, and I got so excited I went to turn up the volume and hit the AM/FM button. It immediately started playing the loud fuzzy/scratchy noise we all recognize, and I was pissed. Real pissed off. I went back to the song but it wasn't the same, I didn't get to hear it straight through...you know?

Well this is where we bonded, and it's totally lame. But I was thinking of the past few weeks with my family. Ever since we've known Gen was leaving we've been getting together a lot more and I've gotten used to all the parties and seeing everyone so much. The second Gen left it really hit me how much change was going to happen. It was like I hit the AM button, and everything was fuzzy quite suddenly.

I've always been very open to change and risk in my life. I love new adventures, even if I know they could go terribly wrong. I guess the reason I keep doing it is because they usually turn out either good or somewhat okay. But with Gen leaving it is definitely different. I am losing this time whether I like it or not.

I think all the change I have experienced this year has been a lot to take in, but I know I just have to turn the dial to a new station, not so fuzzy, and hopefully just as good. I miss Gen, but I know the trips to Boston/Springfield will make it all worth it.

I'll be back on my feet soon enough.

She's Headed to Bowston.

2008-08-06T13:53:00.001-07:00

I was reading some old journal entries and found some pictures of me at age 17. Boy, I was a hoochie mama! Sorry to those who suffered the consequences.

SO. Here are some cupcakes dedicate to Gen -- Boston Cream Pie from my work:

Gen and KC are headed to Bowston tomorrow morning, or rather Springfield, which is about an 1 1/2 hours from Boston. KC's going to law school so they will be living there for > 3 years. So, this one's for Vieve.

10 Things I Love About Gen:

1. From ages 8-12 all I journaled about was Gen puking.

2. Gen let me sleep in her room up until her Junior year, and participated in "The Christmas Crew" till age 16. Both were well worth it.

3. Gen would take secret pictures of the guys I liked for me, so I could hang them in my room. (Embarassing.)

4. She was my best friend through the Family Golden Years (a.k.a. the Divorce)

5. She brought KC into the family.

6. Going to Black Friday with Gen and KC and fighting because we are all so exhausted and freezing, but still having fun somehow.

7. The most recent time we went to Disneyland.

8. She is tight with Derek, which is tight.

9. She let me make her wedding cake (now that's going out on a limb).

10. I always know she'll be there, even in Massachusetts.

GEN: You're a jerk for moving, but I know it's going to be the time of your life!

We'll miss you guys!!

Dreams.

2008-08-05T09:07:00.000-07:00

As per Gen's request, here is KC's second work of art for the Cavanaugh family. Me, beaver version:

Ha! Please, no blackmail.

Now, Derek can vouch for me when I say that I have had two weeks of consecutively weird dreams. First it was earwigs coming out of the walls, to 12-year-old Kelsy getting married despite all of our disapproval, to last nights...the FREAKIEST, and the WEIRDEST.

Figure 1- My Biggest Fear.

Let me explain, ha. Here is where my dream began: The whole town was a riot because a werewolf had come to Cottonwood Heights to destroy the city. He was entering homes and killing families, and I was totally scared for my life.

Derek and I were asleep and we got a call from the cops that the werewolf was on his way to our house and we needed to hide (how helpful.) Next thing I knew Derek had disappeared and I ran into the closet to hide.

The wolf (who was the SCARIEST creature EVER!) came running into the house howling, and ran right to the closet where I was hiding. He could smell me, but the funny thing is, I didn't even know where I was hiding, I just knew that he couldn't find me.

So he left, and Derek and I were happy, and for some reason had a baby, and that was the end.

SO....I guess what I am trying to say is my dream could definitely be a best-selling fantasy novel, with a less happily-ever-after ending.

Weird.

Our Apartment Always Smells.

2008-07-31T13:50:00.000-07:00

It really does. Our apartment is so prone to smelliness, and I don't understand why. I am blaming the downstairs neighbors, I'm 90% sure it's their fault.

To business......here is a picture of Derek, it's been slightly altered (heh):

I love it! KC has some weird picture alteration application on his phone. I was quite proud of this one.

Anyways, We got our first official wedding photo mounted on our wall....it looks great, and since no one ever comes over, I thought I would share via blog.

Okay, that is a picture of a picture, so of course it looks a little lame. Here is the original:

It's my favorite picture from our wedding -- sorry to show it off. If you want to see it in even BETTER quality....come see for yourself!

A Few Things I Learned Today.

2008-07-30T16:05:00.000-07:00

1. Avoid bladder infections at ALL COSTS.

2. Watching "Dexter" may make you think your husband is going to kill you.

3. Naked babies will most likely pee in the pool.

4. Black Cherries are so much better warm.

5. Banana Cream Pie Cupcake = Huge success.

The 24th is Always Peculiar.

2008-07-24T11:08:00.000-07:00

My mom told me today that she was more proud of me than she'd ever been in my life, and I had a huge black thing in between my teeth while she said it.

It really meant more that way.

Some S'mores cupcakes from So Cupcake: They are undeniably delicious.

As Gennie Got Hitched.

2008-07-22T08:47:00.000-07:00

Gennie's wedding was absolutely beautiful. It was up at Rice Eccles, and the view was spectacular. I don't have much else to say, other than I balled, small talked with thousands of relatives....and oh yeah -- made the cake!

I have to add, that Derek put a lot of work into the cake too. I got him up at 7 a.m. on Saturday and he helped me decorate at least half of it. All the stripes and some of the diamonds are his work. I love you babe!

With Gen being the prettiest usually, it just made it more obvious on her wedding day. Here are all the sistas:

To Gen: What a jerk! Okay I take that back. Good luck with everything, and we love you guys!!

Before Gennie was Hitched.

2008-07-20T21:29:00.000-07:00

Last week we had a million parties leading up to Gen and KC's wedding, which was Saturday. We had a BBQ where my Aunt Nancy and Uncle Phil sang (they are the best), the rehearsal BBQ, Pedicures with all the girls, the family watched old home videos, and best of all SAMPLES NIGHT.

Lets start here:

Gennie, Becky, and I, and I'm not sure whoever else would join in, but as kids we would play "Samples"--a game where you make little snacks that usually consisted of cheese and crackers or lil' smokies, and you eat and enjoy.

For the night before the wedding we wanted to do something really fun with Gen so we decided to reenact Samples. All of the family members came over to my moms house with their own versions. Here is what arrived:

Kelsy with miniature Snow Cones -- Best Idea Ever.

Daniel with Tostino's Pizza Rolls -- You know, the ones that were recently recalled....

Derek and I with Mini Corn Dogs -- I'm not going to lie, they were ADORABLE.......

Kristin with my favorite Sample -- Bacon and waterchestnuts with a Secret Sauce...
(Give up the recipe Krick)

Jaaf and Kylie with breadsticks -- and funny faces......

Mom with tradition -- Biscuits and her coined frosting, and ham and pineapple skewers....

And after we had all eaten, and decided that to our dismay, Daniel's pizza rolls were the hit of the night, the last guest arrived. Who else but the REASON for the party -- the bride to be.

Below: Gen just loving one of our mini corn dogs......

I have one last thing to say: Of all of our family parties, and random ideas- this was by far the best. Good job Krick!

WILCO.

2008-07-15T15:15:00.000-07:00

I don't mean to post twice, but it seems like a habit now. Pictures of food don't cut it for a post for me.

To the Point:
Anyone who knows me well, knows that my favorite band is Wilco. Anyone who knows me well, has already heard my sob story too:

I waited three years for them to come in concert, and they finally are. I waited and waited for June 2 to arrive, when tickets went on sale, but was doing a wedding cake and completely forgot. I was able to get on the next day a.s.a.p., but the show was already sold out.

If I had one thing to say to Wilco it would be: Bummer. I am being a huge wuss about the whole situation, but it blows.

I wanted to put up a clip from my favorite song, not only by Wilco, but by anyone....It's called "Jesus, etc" and you really should watch it if you get a sec, cause they are the best!

(Skip like 50 seconds in, cause he talks for a bit....)

Ladybug Avenue.

2008-07-15T14:25:00.001-07:00

Lately we've been getting a lot of requests for ladybug cupcakes at work. I like how they've turned out so I thought I'd throw them on the blog:

Here are some other cupcakes I did at work for a shower. Cute!

Phews!

2008-07-14T08:54:00.001-07:00

So with the help of my new hand-me-down iPhone (as a result of Derek getting the newer one, I am really happy about this), I got some stellar pics of my nephews, who are by the way, my favorite kids in the world. I was sad that Basil had already left by the time picture taking came around, but here are what I got of Asher and Ozzy:

Ozzy- sticking his tongue out. How rude.

The BFF's.

More Ozzy cuteness.

Asher: Very photogenic!

Asher taking an important call.

This is my favorite picture. Asher is a commercial model in the making.

The girls enjoying the babies...Why??......Because BABIES ROCK!!

New Delivery.

2008-07-14T08:51:00.000-07:00

NO, not a baby. This weekend I delivered my first wedding at So Cupcake, with help from the fab husband. The wedding was up at the Moonbeam Lodge in Solitude, I thought it turned out really well, here are some pics!

Don't you love the ginormous cupcake on top too? I do.

The Ultimate.

2008-07-09T13:01:00.000-07:00

If there was ever someone out there that was living my dream life, it would be Colin Cowie.

I saw this guy on an HGTV show once (I know, I really should do more with my life), showing off his amazing designer kitchen. I checked out his website, and totally loved it. If you want to check it out, which you should, you can here. If you go to "Parties and Celebrations" and then "A Late Evening Supper", you'll see the beautiful kitchen in full throttle.

These are some pics of his amazing kitchen, and a few other things he's done. But I must say, it's worth checking out the website because it all looks better there:

I just love his style. The colors are so vibrant and it's totally creative.

And hint to Derek: keep a good eye on that kitchen: it'll be ours someday =D

As it Should Be.

2008-07-08T09:50:00.000-07:00

Here is a snippet from the video Derek's cousin Todd is working on from our wedding. This is going to be the opening title sequence, and there is music so you should turn it on cause it's great:

Todd did an AMAZING job on the video, it is so beautiful, as you can see.

Thank you Todd!!!!!!!

White Chocolate Raspberry Swirl.

2008-07-07T14:11:00.003-07:00

I have Mondays off, so I like to bake something new when I can.

Today was Vanilla Cake swirled with Raspberry Jam and White Chocolate Chips. The frosting is cream cheese.

Baking:

The Finished Product:

I should have put more jam in the middle, but with the jam dollop in the frosting, it was the perfect balance. They were delish!

Taming the Fox.

2008-07-07T10:11:00.000-07:00

The Little Prince is one of my favorite books, even beating out Harry Potter. This morning I woke up inspired to read it again -- I thought I'd post an excerpt from my favorite part:

(The Little Prince meets a fox, who asks him to "tame" him.)

"What must I do, to tame you?" asked the little prince.

"You must be very patient," replied the fox. "First you will sit down at a little distance from me-- like that-- in the grass. I shall look at you out of the corner of my eye, and you will say nothing. Words are the source of misunderstandings. But you will sit a little closer to me, every day..."

The next day the little prince came back.

"It would have been better to come back at the same hour," said the fox. "If, for example, you come at four o'clock in the afternoon, then at three o'clock I shall begin to be happy. I shall feel happier and happier as the hour advances. At four o'clock, I shall already be worrying and jumping about. I shall show you how happy I am!"

So the little prince tamed the fox. And when the hour of his departure drew near--

"Ah," said the fox, "I shall cry."

"It is your own fault," said the little prince. "I never wished you any sort of harm; but you wanted me to tame you..."

"Yes, that is so," said the fox.

"But now you are going to cry!" said the little prince.

"Yes, that is so," said the fox.

"Then it has done you no good at all!"

"It has done me good! I will make you a present of a secret," said the fox, "A very simple secret: It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye."

Snow Oasis.

2008-07-03T15:16:00.000-07:00

The snow cone.

I will be the first to admit, that Derek and I have summer down pat. Here is how our day goes:

TO DO LIST:

1. Go to work (because we have to)
2. Come home and immediately change into swimming attire.
3. Drive to Snoasis- order a coconut cream for me, an Almond Joy for Derek
4. Head to the pool.
5. Lay out
6. VERY CRUCIAL: pool, hot tub, pool. In this precise order.
7. Come home, have some form of dinner.
8. Lay around for the remainder of the evening, watching the sitcom we are currently addicted to (whatever that may be).

Now, I can give you my guarantee, that if you follow these steps exactly, you will live a long, happy, tan life. (For the Summer of 2008).

SIDE NOTE: Snoasis is the best place to get snow cones. Derek and I have spent many hours trying and testing around, but this is by far the best.

SIDE NOTE 2: We are twelve.

Cakes 2.0

2008-06-26T16:10:00.000-07:00

I did another cake yesterday for a small wedding, here are the results:

Making this cake was so much fun cause I got to design it myself. Yay cakes!

Hot or Not?

2008-06-26T16:08:00.001-07:00

Derek and I bought new goggles the other day, and TRULY enjoyed them. But I was wondering, who looks better in their new underwater shades? So I am taking a vote:
ME

or DEREK

Hahaha! Well.... let me know. Even though I already know the answer (psht, mine are pink, so, me of course.)

The moral of this story is we are obsessed with our pool so here's the invite: We are always there, so join us!

Midnight Arson.

2008-06-24T17:54:00.000-07:00

Last night I almost lit our apartment on fire. Here's how:

It was probably about 3 a.m. and Derek and I were fast asleep. I remember I woke up SO abruptly thinking something was terribly wrong.

For some reason, I immediately leaned over and grabbed a huge handful of tissues out of the tissue box (why? because this is what my half-asleep brain was telling me to do). Then, I turned on the lamp, and tried to unscrew the lightbulb with the pile of tissues in my hand. You know, cause I apparently thought I was going to get burned or something. Not to mention, throughout this whole process I was trying to be sneaky so Derek wouldn't see me, because I thought he would be really mad.

When unscrewing the light bulb proved unsuccessful, I thought to myself "Screw it," and went straight back to sleep.

When I woke up in the morning I had no recollection of the event till I leaned over and saw a GIANT pile of tissues. I thought "What the heck!?!?!" Until, this story came flooding back to mind.

WHAT'S WRONG WITH ME??? I've been scared all day.

June 23, 2008.

2008-06-23T11:13:00.001-07:00

Why do things happen the way they do?

Spanish Rice.

2008-06-21T16:59:00.000-07:00

Derek and I recently became obsessed with a mexican restaurant called "Su Casa". I'm sorry mom, but it is actually better than La Cocina, minus the free margaritas.

Well last night, Derek and I were looking for something that wasn't rich (ha! that didn't work out...) because both of us have felt full for about three weeks now. As we searched for a place to go, we stumbled upon this Spanish haven, and drove into the parking lot.

I am not kidding there is something about this restaurant. Every time we go they have us seated within 10 seconds of us walking in the door, even during their busiest hours, and have water and your meal to you within 5 minutes. It's fantastic.

Well, I don't have a complete recollection to why Derek was doing this....But he was impersonating something I had done earlier that day, and it included a huge GRUNT. So, he grunted, and as a result got a piece of Spanish rice lodged in his nasal cavity.

I, for one, have never heard of this happening, so I refused to believe it. Derek continued to blow his nose profusely throughout the meal and on the way to the car. It was getting a little loud and obnoxious when I heard a loud "PSHPT!" and it stopped.

Derek leaned over, opened the napkin, and there lie a perfectly preserved piece of snotty Spanish rice. It was.........the grossest thing I have ever seen.

I promise you that THAT is the last time I enjoy my spanish rice.

EW!!!!

A few of my favorite things.....

2008-06-17T14:22:00.000-07:00

"Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things."

-Robert Brault

A cold Rootbeer
Swimming when the water is just right
The Beatles
Seeing an old friend and they haven't changed a bit
Spending hours on the perfect cake
Feeling really stylish
New music
Being with my family hours on end
Traveling -- Anywhere
Every time I listen to Wilco
Competing
Watching the last episode of Sex and the City
The Hawaiian beach at night
Talking to my mom in her office
New Years Eve in California
Basil, Ozzy, and Asher
Thinking
Sleepovers where you actually get to sleep
Learning something new from Chef Di
River rafting
The Little Prince
Breaking in new shoes
Boston
Senior Year
America's Next Top Model
Unagi Sushi + Miso Soup
Dance-offs
Reading old journal entries
Going to a new restaurant
Reading excellent quotes
Unexpectedly nice people
Moulin Rouge
Laying next to Liz and Dani discussing life
Crying when it feels right
Evenings at home
And last but CERTAINLY not least:
Cuddling
Smooching
Getting to Know
Admiring
And being with:

Boredumb.

2008-06-15T09:57:00.000-07:00

Check out the sweet box we made for Derek's dad's father's day present. It's cool, and we are easily amused.

Here are some random cupcakes from this week.

Man, today is so freaking boring! Derek and I have spent most of the morning wandering around the house like Neanderthals. It's been pretty bad. That's one thing I have noticed about being married. It is so great, but it can definitely be boring sometimes.

My sisters always make fun of me because about a year before I met Derek I sat around crying because I thought no one would love me for my weird quirks. Derek really does. We can be so weird sometimes, but that's what being married is all about. Freedom to be yourself, even if its pretty crazy. I believe the weirdest thing this morning is when I turned the corner and Derek was singing "We welcome you to Munchkin land..."

It totally made my day. That's all for today, hopefully something exciting happens today so I can please my 2-3 readers tomorrow!

Ret Her Into Your Heart......

2008-06-14T14:35:00.000-07:00

Those are some pics of some cupcakes for a wedding at work...I thought they looked pretty cute.

So today's post it dedicated to my future children. My husband, Derek, is 1/2 Japanese (His mother is full Japanese)....so as a result, our children will be a fourth Japanese. I like to wonder about this often. What will they look like? Will they all have dark hair? I am pretty sure they are going to be adorable -- that's for sure.

Which leads me to the following video. My friend had me look this up online, and it is the first thing that made me want to have babies. This kid is so awesome:

I really hope our kids turn out like that!

Bacon Makes The Heart Grow Fonder.

2008-06-13T14:31:00.000-07:00

It really does. Bacon has saved my life many a time, and today it definitely succeeded in cheering me up.

I turned the corner to my kitchen after work today and found...the BIGGEST mess ever. Chocolate on the walls, the floor, chocolate dishes all over the counters...(I obviously made chocolate cupcakes yesterday). It looked like a chocolate slasher film! Mom, Kristin, Gen, and anyone else who came over last night can attest.

As I started cleaning I remembered the fresh, unopened package of bacon sitting on the bottom shelf of the fridge. I rapidly opened it up and cooked me up 6 pieces -- When you eat bacon, you have to binge. I sat down, enjoyed my snack...and the rest of cleaning was a pleasant delight. Thank you bacon!!

I am so glad I started this blog to tell you guys stories like this. As you can tell, they are VERY important.

Cakes 1.0

2008-06-12T17:18:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd put up some pictures of my cakes so I could get the "food" aspect of my blog going a little. (Sorry to all those that have seen these pictures a billion times now...)

Enclosed.

2008-06-12T13:55:00.000-07:00

I love my new blog layout!! Well done husband.

Anyways....I guess we call today's post I Hate You Don't Come Back To The Cupcake Store. A little harsh, but very fitting. Let me explain.

There are certain people out there that go into a store with only one intention: to get pissed off at anything they can find. Hence the lady I served today. Cupcakes are a happy thing right? Or so I thought. The lady was about sixty years old and had a face that already looked grumpy. She ordered some cupcakes with "Congrats Denise and Aaron" written on every single cupcake. I don't think it takes a cupcake scientist to realize that a long phrase like that, most likely won't fit on a cupcake.

Well....because of the scariness in the lady's face I agreed to do it anyway, and rung her up for the sale. Her immediate reaction to the price, "WELL! These cupcakes better be REALLY good for THAT price!" (my immediate reaction- "...... i don't like this woman ....."

etc, etc.

Moral of the story... are some people so angry in life, they even have beefs with cupcakes?

Celebrating My Babes.

2008-06-10T14:57:00.000-07:00

It was Derek's birthday yesterday, and although I shouldn't admit it.....I went overboard. I never realized how truly fun it is to spoil someone.....

He had to work, which was a total bummer, so my sister Kristin gave me the idea to take him on a picnic. I surprised him and led him to Murray Park right by the stream with a pile of delicious food.

After scarfing and enjoying many romantic moments, he went back to work while I prepared for the rest of the night. After he got off work we dressed up and headed downtown. Destination: Ruth's Chris Steakhouse. Although the water was $12 (Yes, we were shocked!)....it was a good experience and upscale atmosphere, which was fun. The steaks-- Meh.

We then went to Gateway Mall and picked out some real nice sunglasses for him (Ray-Bans). I decided they were sexy and we were on our way. When we got home I gave him his last few presents (All very nerdy gifts including a high-tech mouse) and a little bundt cake from Nothing Bundt Cake- a way cute store- and that was that. It was a really fun day and fun to spoil my babes, who spoils me all the rest of the year.

My Explanation.

2008-06-09T20:59:00.000-07:00

Over the past few weeks I have been taking a number of priceless photos of profound events in my life, when I realized I had nowhere to show them off. Hence: BLOG. Here I am, back in action!

I have kept a journal since I was 8 years old, and been very loyal to it actually. But what is there to journal when no one reads it? So I hope some of you will enjoy, or fake enjoy, my future stories that will most likely include me (Hilary), my husband (Derek), a number of awkward moments, and most importantly: Food.

I discussed with my sisters and mom today what to name my new blog. Hmm....I thought. I had already built a blog named "Hil Definition", but when no one understood it, I begged for outside assistance. Derek (so brilliant) gave me the idea ~ Ace of Cupcakes. How perfect.

I work at a cupcake shop in Sandy, Utah, and boy is it the bomb! I have loved cupcakes for quite a while now, but recently I also got interested in taking a wedding cake decorating class. After signing up and attending it, I found it to be one of the most delightful things there is to do. So hopefully...this is where my future lies.

That is all for now. And don't worry, there will continue to be more. But it is Derek's birthday, and I feel like I should probably be massaging his feet rather than blogging. Till next time!