Things have been insane around here, with all of our evil plotting and the new mix launch later this week.. so I’m a bit behind on blogging.

I do want to give a shout out to the “Our Special Angels” group, though.

Our Special Angels is a volunteer organization which sets up learning and social opportunities for disabled youth.

Every weekend, the girls get together and learn (or hone) another new crafting skill: knitting, crocheting, and now cake decorating. To quote the organization: “Angels participate in fun activities while developing skills leading to greater independence such as leadership, organization, budgeting, socialization, and self care.”

The group began with just two young adults wanting to learn how to crochet. They invited some friends.. who invited some friends.. their parents noticed them becoming more relaxed and happy.. and Our Special Angels was born!

A few weeks ago (and a couple of weeks before that!), I had the pleasure of teaching some basics of cake decorating to a great group of girls.

I must admit – I was very, very nervous going in! I’ve never been good with crowds of people, I don’t consider myself a people person, and I tend to shoot my mouth off – none of which seemed like a great package for doing this!

My first day there, I planned to arrive very early. Figured I’d get my bearings, get set up, and have a few minutes to get comfortable. No such luck! They were all there, reading and excited to get started. Augh! Luckily, I had thought ahead and brought cake. When doubting one’s ability to handle a situation.. cake distraction usually works. LOL!

Everyone was so nice and friendly, and my lack of ease with the whole situation went away pretty quickly. The girls were so much fun, and so eager to learn! That first day, we mixed frosting colors, loaded our bags, and piped words, stars, and rosettes on cardboard. It was actually over way quicker than I expected.

I was looking forward to the next time (I had volunteered to do 2 sessions), and decided to surprise the girls by giving them actual cakes to work on. 15 small, individually boxed cakes were baked, frosted, and packed along with the practice boards. We started the second class with a little review, then learned how to pipe shell borders.

As I started handing out the cake boxes, it was awesome to see faces light up. I’ll never forget it.

It happened to be one of the mother’s birthdays that day, so I helped her daughter Laura “surprise” her by suggesting that Deb (the mother) go help others. I loved watching Laura put so much love into her cake, and then announce the birthday to the room as she presented the cake to her mother. Made my week!

(Laura Gives her mom Deb a Birthday Cake)

I had a blast, and have already signed up to teach another class next spring! Looking forward to it!

If you’re interested in getting involved with (or donating to!) Our Special Angels, their volunteer coordinator can be reached at ourspecialangels@comcast.net