Spitting Yarn

Isn’t the weather glorious?  A little bit of sunshine goes a long to way towards making a new mama feel human.  It’s great to be able to stride out without too much fannying about (except slapping on some SPF).

We’ve had a lovely, social couple of days with Spike receiving visits from both of his ungodparents.  I, in particular, am not religious at all, but we did want Spike to have some other significant grown ups in his life.  His ungodparents were carefully chosen for their very special and inspirational qualities.  We have chosen wisely, I think.

In honour of the visit from the ungodparent (male variety) for afternoon tea and cake, I baked.  I tried a new recipe, a Rhubarb Crumble Cake, and it was *very* good.

Crumble of any sort is right up there with my favourite puds, but it isn’t very summery so this recipe appealed.  I think other soft fruits would substitute well, or fruits which bake well like apple.  My top tip would be too pulse the crumble mixture in a food processor, if you have one, and sprinkle the crumble on the cake without packing it down at all.  It makes for a very crisp, crumbly crumble.  Next time I think I might use strawberries and rhubarb, add a smattering of ground ginger to the crumble and a spot of vanilla essence to the sponge.

I have cake so often these days it is less of a treat and more of a staple food!  Mind you, I burn off so much energy looking after our little one that I think I can afford to indulge.  I present exhibit B…

I can’t claim to have baked these.  They are from the wonderful Hummingbird Bakery on Portobello Road.  I don’t know what their secret is (perhaps corn syrup?), but their cupcakes are always gorgeous.  Clock from top left we have a red velvet, carrot, lemon and coconut and a black bottom cupcake.  Mmmmm!

Spike has started smiling madly which delights us no end.  In fact, his expressions are a source of limitless entertainment: they pass across his face like the weather.

He’s such a lovely little man.