B U N N Y C A K E ! Fast easy, do it from a mix! MUSICA
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
HAPPY EASTER GIRLFRIENDS! A new Willard starts going out on Tuesday ♥ Sign up sisters and girlfriends for a surprise in their email boxes. Blessings on you for a wonderful weekend. Love you, XOXO
Oops…read by Jim Broadbent
PS – a very quiet week on the “foodie” calendar… but for anyone who might be interested we had:
Mon Mar 18 – Oatmeal Cookie Day
Tues Mar 19 – National Poultry Day
Thurs Mar 21 – California Strawberry Day
Sorry so late & have a great weekend, Girlfriends all! :>)
I love the Bunny Cake. What a great idea. I’m looking forward to making it AND eating it.
Hi Susan…hi everyone. I’ve been keeping up with Susan’s blog (that’s a necessity in life, you know), but I haven’t had time to read the comments lately. Charlene H. let me know that you were asking for an update. I’m keeping well, and am being pushed through the medical system here at lightning speed, but it’s been very busy. What would typically take months to happen, is happening in weeks for me. My reports are coming back with excellent results. I know there is a problem (a tumor in the abdomen), but I think the reports are beginning to show that the problem seems to be quite localized. Except for the problem area, results are crystal clear. I still have to have treatment, so there is a journey ahead of me. I am receiving worldwide prayer for this (it almost seems to have gone “viral”), and God is answering in miraculous ways. It’s quite overwhelming really. Your prayers are working girlfriends, and I’m beyond thankful…can’t even put it into words. God’s Word says that I am healed, and I’m choosing to believe that. I only wish I could tell you all the details of my journey. I’m watching some amazing things unfold right in front of my eyes. (Some of them small, but mighty). Thinking and praying for all of you. I hold each of you in my heart…love you! xoxo. I love “our special place” here. I’ll keep you updated and thanks again for the prayers.
Carol C, I saw your comment in the last posting, and I love your idea of Susan doing a calendar of all houses. That would be just “over the hilltop” Susan! Thank you for thinking about me! xo
Thank you back Rhonda for the positive update! You sound wonderful! The perfect attitude. All my very best to you and your family xoxo Happy Spring!
Too much to live for Susan…a new granddaughter and all. The health problems have now been put into perspective with God’s help; and the interesting thing is that I hardly even think about them, and if I do, I change the channel in my mind, call a positive friend, read God’s Word that points me in the right direction, or check into your blog to remind myself of just what the good life looks like and feels like. All the good stuff!!
Very smart Rhonda … xoxo
Sues dad says “let me put my marbles in the ring” — Rhonda, so many of the girls encouraged Sue with a big “You Go Girl” on her book ,
so we all want to add that into your fighting attitude we KNOW YOU WILL WIN ! So we are all saying it again ! YOU GO GIRL ,You got what it takes …….!
Great to hear from you, Rhonda! So glad you still have that wonderful attitude of yours [the most powerful tool in your fighting arsenal]. And thanks for thinking of us with this update… Stay strong & God bless. xoxo :>)
Wonderful news Rhonda! You and your family remain in my thoughts and prayers. I wish you a blessed Easter!
Oh, Rhonda! I love your attitude! And even if you get “down”, God never changes and he never leaves you! I’ve been thinking of and praying for you! Live in God’s strength from day to day. (And in the night, sleep tight because He’s awake!)
Love ya!
Linda
Hi Rhonda! You are an angel of inspiration to all of us! What wonderful news! Stay strong in faith and heart….and may God Bless you with many “ordinary” days…. the best of days! Keep in touch… xoxo
Hi Rhonda! We are keeping you wrapped in prayer!!! What an uplifting update, it made my heart smile. Keep moving forward and know that “the girlfriends” are with you every step of the way.
Cheering your progress all the way from Texas.
Chris
Also, cheering all the way from Indiana…stay positive my friend and you cannot go wrong with GOD guiding you through this journey. We have a Winter Storm coming Sunday?? yikes they are saying 6-8″ it will be messy; but, it shouldn’t stay on the ground long?? Wishing you and your family a Blessed Easter Rhonda….positive thoughts being sent your way!!!
He whispers in my ear. Truly! xoxo
Yes, Rhonda, even those of us who may not comment here, are praying for you and being blessed by you.
Yes, Rhonda–that is so true. Even if we haven’t commented, our thoughts and prayers are with you! 🙂
I ditto that 100%!!!!! Keep the faith and you will be ok.
Rhonda, Want you to know that my husband was diagnosed with cancer ten years ago. Miracle drugs, new to cancer patients, are keeping him alive. Keep that positive attitude! Once read where this very ill man closed himself up in a hotel room & watched funny movies. He cured himself. Humor does help as well.
(Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
As Cathy says, Rhonda, even though we might not all comment, you are in my thoughts and prayers too.
Rhonda,
What a wonderful report! I am thrilled for you!!
Hugs and prayers from California,
Christy
Wonderful news, Rhonda! We are keeping you in our prayers!
Blessings, Marsha
Hi Rhonda, I am so glad you gave us an update. You are in my prayers and I am so happy for you that things sound good!
~All things are possible with God~ Stay positive~blessings~
Well…after reading all these comments, I wish there was a ❤LOVE❤ button that I could push! I, too, am thankful for Rhonda’s progress and her dependence on God. ❤
Rhonda, you are also in my thoughts and prayers. But your lovely attitude, faith and mindset are the miracle and an inspiration to everyone. With your attitude and God beside you, you can combat this. Keep strong girl!
So happy to hear that you’re doing so very well Rhonda! The Lord and the Girlfriend’s prayers are with you!
Hi, Rhonda ~
You are stronger than you think. And the positive thoughts you are choosing to listen to will open your eyes to the blessings around you every day. God will put people in your life with loving hearts and caring hands so that no matter what you have to deal with, you will know you’re not in this alone.
I’ve added my prayers to God for your healing and peace of heart.
xo Debbie
Thank you everyone for all the positive thoughts and prayers…they brings tears. Makes me feel very loved. Keeps me strong and makes me want to keep fighting on. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! God bless you all.
I forgot to mention above, that it was so special to get a response from your Dad, Susan. I don’t have my Dad to cheer me on anymore, and it meant more to me than you could ever imagine. Thank you Jack! xo
Soo good to hear from you Rhonda! Your winning attitude and faith will carry you to victory over the insidious ”c “. Your report was great! Please continue to keep us posted and please know we are still praying for you and your family.
Thinking of you, Rhonda….praying for you today along with all the girlfriends.So happy that you have all this support. God hears the prayers of those who come to Him.
Rhonda, “Be strong and of good courage!” You are such an inspiration to all. Sending prayers from California.
Rhonda! I am dancing a jig here in New Jersey! What a wonderful report. Small details do add up into mighty blessings. Especially with God at the controls… and Just in time for EASTER! Keep looking to the sunrise.
Sending more love and prayers your way.
Georgie from NJ
Rhonda –
I echo everyone’s comments! So many heartfelt wishes and prayers being sent to you that you must be feeling quite positive! It was so wonderful to open the blog comments tonite and see your update as so many of us have you in our hearts and prayers!
Only good thoughts are being sent your way! Hugs to you and your family too! 😉
Well, I never have time to read the comments and usually scroll fast to post my own, but something stopped me at yours, Rhonda.
My husband’s aunt (who is like a mom to us) was diagnosed with 5 types of cancer about 3 weeks ago. She’s staying so up about it and leaning totally on God. He will get her through this. I’ve been praying and found something that’ll help her and here she was doing the same thing without even knowing what it could do lol God is surely working. He will get you through this too, Rhonda. I’ll add you to my prayers right along with Ruby’s xoxo
Love,
Denise of Ingleside, PEI
Never tried it with pineapple in the frosting! What a yummy idea! Love your bunny!
Thanks for this sweet delight when we know how hard you are working. Don’t we feel so special!! :). XXOO
Susan….. all my grandkids will be with us for Easter, and I was just thinking of fun things to do with them, and thought of the bunny cake. Seriously! Just before I opened your blog. You sealed the deal! Thanks! We’ll try and make him as fluffy and cute as your drawing. 🙂
He really does turn out that way, probably even better — have fun Lisa!
I’ve been making that sweet lil bunny cake over the years and it always makes a huge hit. Easy peasy.
Happy Spring!
Susie
Hi Susan,
Loved the cake and have just made it for my daughter’s 6th birthday party. She loved it and I loved making it! Thank you!
Love from Hala (nr. Bath, UK)
How fun! Nice to hear Hala. You’re a good mom.
Hi Susan,
Have you checked Phoebe’s nest recently? If not, you might want to whip over there quick like a “bunny” because it’s really something to see and soon they might be gone! They’re sitting on the rim preening and the chat reflects they might take off soon. Sure hope you are doing well . . . take mighty good care and thank you for being the super star you are,
An ardent supporter,
Carrie
That’s the first time I’ve seen her raise two eggs to fledge. SO happy to see it! Thank you Carrie!
One of Phoebe’s two eggs was non-viable so the host removed it. Thereafter, it happened that they found an orphan and placed it in the nest and Phoebe took beautiful care of that baby dubbed “Pip” – so Pip and Fleur flew the coup 🙂
Love it. How perfectly wonderful!
Thank you Susan for this sweet bunny cake recipe! My grandchildren will love it!
♥Lee Ann
Hi Susan!
My Mom made a Bunny Cake when we were kids and I still remember it! So, so cute!!! Thanks for reminding me :0)
Oh Susan !!! Thank you for the memories. My mom had a booklet of cut-up cakes. She made a different one for me each year. I have the book now and can’t wait to make them for future grandchildren. My fave was the giraffe. You continue to amaze us. A book, a calendar, yet you still take the time to send us a bunny cake. Thanks for the generous gift of your time to us. Thinking spring here. Robins are back but puffed way up since our Indiana winter drags on. Happy Easter to all.
Won’t be long now Judy!
Judy, I too had that booklet, called “Animal Cut-Up Cakes.” I just passed it on to my son, who turns 53 tomorrow. I made the Rocking Horse for his first birthday, plus countless others from that book.
That is the book my mom used!!!
Susan, happy Easter greetings to you! I might just be making that bunny cake, too. I did want to tell you about a wonderful book I just read. (thinking you might like to get it to read on your train ride out West). It’s “Calling Me Home” by Julie Kibler. Her first novel just out in February. It will be a best seller for sure! So check it out online. I also remember you writing about reading one of Kate Morton’s books, besides The Forgotten Garden. If it’s “The Secret Keeper”, wasn’t it great? And if you hadn’t read that one, go get it! Another great read. I recommend both of them to all you readers out there!
Let’s hope spring is just around the corner, it’s been way too cold in northern Illinois.
I haven’t read that one yet, but when I finish the book, I will! Did you read The Distant Hours also by Kate Morton — another good one!
Another really good book I just read was The House at Tyneford by Natasha Solomon. A good read if you are suffering withdrawal from Downton Abbey… 🙂
Oh Pat, I loved that book! You’re right…sooo Downton like!
Tawni, did you find yourself–like me–wishing for a sequel as you neared the end? 🙂
Yes, Pat I was not ready to leave when the book ended! I had foot surgery, while laid up I watched a fantastic British series called Foyle’s War. It’s a detective story that takes place in England. First season starts in 1938, latest season it’s 1945. T.V. at it’s BEST! Know I’m waiting…WAITING for next season to start!!! Check it out on netflix.
Happy Easter Pat!❤
What a sweet recipe page you gave us! Thank You!
I’ve not been able to read comments in the last couple of months (due to eye surgery…….I had to wear sunglasses to be able to read your Bunny recipe) so I am not sure if anyone has mentioned that Victoria magazine has their “Best of Britain” special edition out on the news stands right now. It’s very lovely and I was thrilled to see that it covered “Hill Top Farm” as well. I knew you’d want to know!
Happy Easter! Happy Spring! and Congrats on finishing the calendar and wrapping up our travel book! We can hardly wait!
Glad you are getting well Nanette!!! I need to get that magazine!
Love your bunny cake. I used to make it all the time when my kids were young. I thought of you, Susan, while watching the Jane Austen movie Sense and Sensibility last night (it stars Emma Thompson and Kate Winslet). The sweeping vistas of the English countryide were breathtaking, and lots of cute sheep – reminded me of your wonderful romance with the backroads of England – the trip we got to tag along on. Happy springtime!
Love that movie Rosanne!
Yay for bunny cake! We are a winter wonderland today. I am ready for EASTER!
Do you know about The Minnutes? Happy music for a sad world? You’d LOVE them. I’m jamming to them on a regular basis. Everyone who hears them (at school, when I play them in the classroom or make them into a nifty slideshow) starts dancing. It’s your kinda music, dear Susan!
The Minnutes, adorable … You are so right! Thank you Pom Pom!
HI Susan! Just got back from vacation visiting my wonderful kids, one in Chicago and one with sweet wife in Findlay OH. Had to catch up with you. You are amazing! I don’t know how you do it all. Received some of your out of print books after ordering on Half Price Books. Plug in the author or book and they will bring up availablity from other sources. You can order right from HPB website and though the shipping may be as much as your purchase, it is sooo worth it. The shipping cost is because these depending on what you buy and how many…they can come from different parts of the country. Anyhoo, I got the Baby book, Wedding book, Girlfriend, Summer and Heart of the Home more addition…(like Autumn but continuation?) hard to discribe…anyway just wanted to let everyone know that these can be bought!! Love you..hang in there…you are almost there..!!!!
Wow, that’s great to know … thank you Vicki!
Hi Susan,
Here’s a video clip of Pip returning to the nest after he fledged to get Fleur:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TggVc3lHFwE‘
Phoebe’s wonderful! Thanks for introducing me to Phoebe’s nest!
Carrie
So darling — and she got them both! That’s wonderful!
Love the bunny cake ! It is amazing how many of us have memories of bunny cakes. My mom had (and now I have) a very old and heavy Griswold mold for a bunny cake. It looks like a real rabbit. Every year my two brothers and I would have a big decision to make- did we want the rabbit frosted with white frosting and pink ears, or did we want him with brown frosting with a white tail ??? Such a big decision !!
I have seen lots of bunnies hopping in my yard lately. I think they are very busy dying Easter eggs, that they will soon deliver on Easter morning in pretty Easter baskets.
xo Judy
Hi Rhonda…this week, Holy Week is very special and MANY people will be saying extra prayers. A great week to be in people’s minds.
God Bless and Keep, Toni
I made a bunny cake last year, and also made one years ago..always a hit. This year I’m making mini cheesecake Easter baskets.
My favorite aunt used to have us over t make coconut-tufted bunny cakes for easter each year. Hers were always chocolate cake inside with white frosting, and they perched on the plate–a whole bunny, from nose to tail. Jellybean eyes…ah, childhood! Next year I think my Pigeon will be ready to make one!
I remember when my mother found these instuctions and made the cake for Easter. I thought it was the most wonderful, magical thing ever. Thank you for the memory.
Confusicus say -it’s dangerous to get between Peter Rabbit and his girlfriend.
A mushroom walked into a bar , hopped up on a stool and ordered whisky -straight up !
“Out of here ! “said the bartender “,We don’t serve mushrooms.”
” Why not”,said the mushroom , “I’m a fungi “
Hee hee hee …. good one! So cute dad!
Thank you so much for posting the bunny cake! My 9 year old niece was here visiting my parents this past weekend. She and I made the cake for her to take home to “show off” to her three younger sisters. She couldn’t quite figure out at first how 2 round cakes were going to make a bunny, but she absolutely loved it!!! She was so pround of herself! She asked if we could make it for her birthday. She is really thinking ahead as it won’t be until November 🙂 She loves being in the kitchen with me or her Granny! She has learned to make homemade roll out dumplings from my Mom; something I haven’t even learned. Thanks again for posting. It helped to make a memory, which is what makes life worthwhile 🙂
Good “Snowy” Morning, Susan and Girlfriends,
This is our first real snow of the season-ha ha-and it’s happening in spring!
But, yes, I am happy, watching it fall like it does in the movies. I feel cozy and ready to tackle some indoor chores (like the shelves under the kitchen island!) and then I will sit by the fire with some coffee and feel as snug as a bug in a rug! Although I must admit that the thought of a bug hidden in a rug is rather alarming! So, maybe I should say, as snug as my kitty curled up beside me!
I know that this blanket of snow will be so good for my bulbs, none of which have opened yet (except the crocus and the snowdrops). Last year, at this time, the daffs were done with their blooming! Isn’t that crazy? Well, I have lots to look forward to!
And, Sue dear, I know that this snow has come because of your need to hunker down and finish your book! But, truly, I am not complaining! I am loving it (snow never lasts long in March!) and loving the picture in my mind of you, with paint pots around you and the tiny one bristle brush in your hand, putting the final touches on your creation!
You Go Girlfriend!
Linda
Almost there Linda! Thank you so much!
I loved that bunny cake. My mom made that back in the sixties for us. I peaked in a new antique store across from our marina in NC this weekend. I found a very pretty light blue table cloth, and there was a long pink one with napkins that I know you would love. The gal named her store “The Nesting Cottage”. I love that name!
Awwwwww! Happy Easter, Susan, to you and your family! I just love bunnies and your bunny cake looks amazing. Brings back childhood memories. I was reading some of the comments prior to mine, and it is really amazing how many of us have these kinds of wonderful memories. Now it’s time to make some for my kids! I can’t wait to make this bunny cake now – I think we have some of that confetti cake mix in our local grocery store. I am going to stop on my way home from work tonight (if it doesn’t snow too much! yes, it’s snowing here? And there???) and pick up that mix!
Thanks!!
Hi Susan, I know you mentioned how much you love lambs, so do I. I just found, through the Country Living UK magazine blog, a live LambCam from Mead Open Farm in England. There are a few ewes that will be giving birth soon, possibly this weekend. Here’s the website: http://meadopenfarm.co.uk/lambcam.htm
Hello. I just finished watching the 4th episode of the Victorian Farm on YouTube that another girlfriend told us about. At the 50-minute mark there’s a delightful scene of 10 momma sheep with their 16 babies: youtu.be/u2DL_C5WUfo
I saw a really cute idea for Easter dinner salad plate: hardboil eggs, cool, and cut in half widthwise, not lengthwise. Make cut edges ragged. Take yolks out and make deviled egg filling. Fill bottom half of egg, place top back on–leaving space of yellow blob of filling showing. Make a beak out of a small triangle of carrot and eyes out of a tiny piece of black olive. Chickie deviled eggs!!! Place on a lettuce leaf… Really cute!!! Could be made hours ahead and put in refrigerator in a tight container… 🙂
Happy Easter Susan, kitties, and hubby! Your bunny cake is too cute! I made one like that for our daughter’s 2nd Birthday, which was exactly on Easter Sunday! [Wow…that was 31 yrs. ago now already!] Happy painting too and Happy Spring!
Hello Everyone….well INDIANA survived what they called a “Historic Snowstorm”…….the timeline was off and that did change a lot of plans on Sunday; but, when it came it was a heavy wet snow and when finished we ended up with 6.5-7” of the white stuff covering our green grass and Spring Flowers trying so hard to open and give us some cheer!!! Here is my feelings on this unwelcomed snow….This is Holy Week and if the Lord wants us to have snow HE can and did give us this weather!!!! Afterall, it will not stay with us long since the temperatures will get to 50 this week!!! I’m sad with news that my Mother is in the hospital with kidney failure after a bout with the flu so far away from me. I’m praying that good care and fluids will improve her kidneys so she can get back home for Easter and her 63rd Anniversary on April 08th. All things are possible with HIS GRACE.
Sending prayers for your Mom and for your worried heart. All things ARE possible with God! btw, Deborah, I sent you a reply in our basketball conversation on 3/25 but it’s still in moderation.
Hi~
I am praying your Mom gets better soon~ I miss mine so much!
Deborah, keeping your Mom wrapped in prayer for her recovery. You are so right…all things are possible with HIS GRACE. Someone read this to me tonight: God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Be still, and know that I am God. (Psalm 46: 5, 10)
Amen….thank you Rhonda so sweet of you giving me your blessings what a lovely, encouraging Psalm. We all have our battles, burdens, and my faith has seen me through so many. I’m not sure we can ever prepare for the reversal of roles from child to guardian of our parents. I’m a very strong woman and love my family dearly; but, watching my parents fail is bigger than me so I have to lean and trust that the Lord will guide me and help me show my parents strength, love, and let them age with dignity and the peace of mind that I will always be here like they were for me when I was a child. Stay well Rhonda you are always in my thoughts and prayers.
Oh Deborah! HIS GRACE! Your faith is so strong and Mom’s are too….I pray for blessings of health and peace for you and your family!
Thank you dear friend, I will enjoy the good days and pray for strength during their difficult ones. Peace is the most perfect gift we receive day to day….whether it is in our hearts or minds it keeps us calm and centered allowing us to serve others whether family or friends. I want to be here for my parents allowing them their independence while keeping them safe and comforted which isn’t always easy to do. I’m praying they decide to come back to Indiana to make it easier to accomplish my goals….I appreciate your prayers it makes me feel inspired to be the best daughter that I possibly can be. Blessings to you and your family.
Susan, I have been reading all the comments on the bunny cake and I was so blessed by all the comments regarding Rhonda D’s report that I might have missed it if you have already been asked and answered this question ~ If I make this DARLING cake without benefit of a boxed cake mix, can you tell me what sort of “confetti” and how much of it should I add to my scratch cake to mimic the one you used? Happy Easter Everyone!
I tried that once with little colored candies, folded them into the batter, and it worked! I didn’t measure… but my guess is at least 2 TB — you’ll be able to tell by looking.
You are the WoMan! Thanks!
Hop Hop Hopping by to say an Early Happy Easter! I’m FINALLY getting caught up with the things that really matter 🙂
I left a post on the calendar blog and wanted to get to this one too. I am loving all of the girlfriennds… old… and NEW!!!
Celebrating with you that your calendars are DONE and A Fine Romance is just about ready 🙂 🙂 🙂 xoxo
YIPPEE!
Georgie
Yardville, NJ
* Happy Easter Susan and Joe *
* Happy Easter to all of our Posting Girlfriends and their families *
I would also like to “hop” in here to say a special hi with good thoughts to you, Rhonda D. Your update to us all is a positive one. Yes, you do have quite a journey ahead of you…but just know…that along your journey’s path, you’ll have many “signposts” along the way, from all of us wishing you encouragement, love and blessings.
Hi Lori from Maine. Hi Linda from Lancaster.
I’ll be looking forward to your lovely personal posts and e-mails to me.
Sending you all a Basket filled with Easter Hugs from:
* Dorothy Ann on Cougar Mountain, Washington *
Happy full Crow Moon. As I am from the northern Indian tribe area – that is what they say they called it. Also called the Sap Moon – lots of Maple trees in MN too or the Crust Moon – remember hiking in the woods and practically “skinning” my shins from my feet breaking thru the crusted snow (from the melting and refreezing). Think the Worm Moon was a little further south:) Hope all is well. Prayers to Rhonda!
I love this cake! It’s so much easier than it looks and is such a centerpiece for an Easter dinner. I felt so smart (such a good mom!) the first time I made it.
I felt the same way, has a pride thing going for it!
Thank you so much for posting the bunny cake! My 9 year old niece was here visiting my parents this past weekend. She and I made the cake for her to take home to “show off” to her three younger sisters. She couldn’t quite figure out at first how 2 round cakes were going to make a bunny, but she absolutely loved it!!! She was so pround of herself! She asked if we could make it for her birthday. She is really thinking ahead as it won’t be until November! She loves being in the kitchen with me or her Granny! She has learned to make homemade roll out dumplings from my Mom; something I haven’t even learned. Thanks again for posting. It helped to make a memory, which is what makes life worthwhile!
I love it that she’s proud of herself, makes my day. She’ll be a wonderful cook one day and all her friends will love her even more!
I woke up this morning wondering how Rhonda D. is doing and was up lifted reading not only her comments..but all the others’..including…Susan’s dear Dad, Jack..not afraid to share his “inner girlfriend” with us..continued prayers of strength and healing for Rhonda and everyone who may be struggling or worried or feeling over-whelmed by some challenge in their lives…
…Easter Ham !….I trust the girlfriends’ opinions..in fact Pat Mofjeld perhaps…who helped me with the cooking of a turkey in electric roaster during Thanksgiving.. (which was a tremendous hit )….Can a bone-in spiral cut ham be cooked successfully in the electric roaster or is the oven a better idea ?
You could bake it in an electric roaster but the roaster is kind of large unless you have a very large ham. Maybe you would want to wrap the ham in foil tightly? I cook our ham often in a crockpot although sometimes they aren’t deep enough for a ham. You are cooking it one way or the other, the electric roaster is just kind of a “portable oven”. Just a comment–most spiral-cut hams really just need warming, they have been cooked already, so be careful not to overdo it which would dry it out. For the same reason, I’ll tell you one more thing–for girlfriends with a small group at Easter (which we usually are), you don’t have to heat the whole ham–cut off about as much as you want to put on the serving platter and put it in your crockpot on “Low” to heat…instead of warming/cooking the whole ham. Then as you use leftovers, you can cut it off the ham, heat it, and the meat doesn’t become dried out… Happy Easter to all the girlfriends from me! 🙂
Pat, Thank you so much for the great suggestion about using only what you’ll need for a smaller crowd and heating it in the crock pot…I love it ! ..Thank you and Happy Easter to all.
Good tip Pat!
Hi everyone. The below comment has been in moderation for 2 days….I think it’s because I put in a link to YouTube and the filter is preventing Susan from getting it! It concerns baby lambs so I’m sure she’d let it through if she could see it. So I’ll just point you to it and hope you can find it on your own. Here’s what I wrote:
“Hello. I just finished watching the 4th episode of the Victorian Farm on YouTube that another girlfriend told us about. At the 50-minute mark there’s a delightful scene of 10 momma sheep with their 16 babies.”
So you should go to YouTube (Google it if you don’t know how to find it), enter Victorian Farm in the search box, look down the list for the 4th episode, then follow the above instructions. Good luck and happy watching!
tonight is the Worm Moon…and with all of us girlfriends living under its Spring spell, I wish all of you a most blessed Easter. And Rhonda D. , with your positive attitude you are well on your way to finding happiness at the end of this rainbow. Happy Easter everyone and even more: Happy Spring and the beginning of gardening again and seeing the flowers flourish! ♥♥♥ Loves and Hugs to all of you and especially to Joe, Susan, Girl Kitty and Jack….what a nice family! xoxo
You too Susan, Happy Spring .. thank you!
Susan:
A woman of many talents, no wait, a woman of too many talents. I truly admire you for showing us what you have inside you. You share your beauty and it shines in more ways than you think. You pull the imagination out of us and let us live in a world that we so truly want to live in. I agree with the new calendar idea of making if about of your houses. Your home is filled with pictures of all kinds of homes and we know your love of wanting to walk down streets and wonder who lives in that house? What do the rooms look like? What room does the family gather in? What secrets do those homes have inside them? That is the same thing I think of when I take walks with my husband. Keep the imagination coming as it is the thread of life. In the words of the famous Thomas Edison, he always said, “all the money in the world, will not buy you any time”. You have proven that as you live for every moment, every day.
Rhonda, you are surrounded by many friends that are praying for you and giving you the strength to overcome this small speed bump in your life. Soon, the road ahead will be smooth sailing. Keep the faith my friend!
Everyone else: I love reading your messages. Happy Easter! May the bunny brings you lots of goodies! Anyone have any good glaze recipes for ham besides honey? Something not so sweet and maybe savory?
Beautiful words Adele, thank you so much. That Thomas Edison was one brilliant guy. He also said, “There ain’t no rules around here, we’re trying to accomplish something!” Happy Easter!
Hi Adele! I have a Rasberry Wine Glaze recipe you may like….
1/4 cup dry white wine
2 Tbsp. lemon juice
2 tsp. cornstarch
1/3 cup seedless red Rasberry jam
1 Tbsp. butter
In a small saucepan, stir white wine and lemon juice into cornstarch. Add about 1/2 jam. Cook till thick and bubbly. Cook and stir for 2 minutes. Stir in remaining jam. Add butter. Heat and stir the mix till butter is melted. To glaze ham, spoon fat from pan, 20-30 minutes before end of baking time. Brush scored ham with glaze. Continue baking and basting with glaze till thermometer reaches 140 degrees. Spoon any remaining glaze over ham.
I wonder if a sprinkling of rosemary would be nice for a little savory touch?
This was for a 4-5 lb. fully cooked boneless ham….
This is what I use, Adele: I make a paste by putting brown sugar in a small dish and adding mustard (you can use spicy brown or reg. yellow) and mixing until it makes a paste. Add as much mustard as you can to cut the sweetness and still maintain a pasty consistency. About 10 min. before the ham’s done, I score the top and spread this paste all over and then drizzle with orange juice. Sometimes I use pineapple juice instead of OJ just because I usually cook pineapple with the ham anyway. This isn’t exactly savory but nice and tangy…yum! Happy Easter, Adele!
Adele, this is the sauce we have served with our baked ham….forever:)
mix in a saucepan: 1 cup brown sugar, 1 TBSP cornstarch and 1/4 tsp salt. Add: One 8 1/2 oz. can crushed pineapple with the juice, 2 TBSP lemon juice and 1 TBSP mustard. Cook over medium heat stirring constantly untill it thickens and boils. Boil & stir 1 minute – done – delish:) You can just serve this warm with the ham, or, use some of it to glaze the ham the last 20 min or so and serve the remainder in your gravy bowl.
Hi Dawn, Debbie and Judi:
That you three for sharing your glaze recipes with me. I will try all three. I love to share recipes. It was really nice that you all responded and I much appreciate the help!! Hope everyone had a very happy Easter and relaxed somewhat.
Happy Spring to everyone.
Susan: believe it or not, my forsythia bush is getting ready to pop its buds soon. Kinda early for Michigan, but I’ll take any signs of Spring I can get. and color too!
… what a treat for you to take us through the Peak District again..(via twitter)…how I adore that countryside !! ..hope all is going well with you..April is almost here !!!!…have a blessed Easter-time everyone…with love..
Going really well Mary … I only have eight pages to go, that includes the flaps for the dust jacket, the spine, table of contents, things like that. I painted lambs today. Perfect for Easter! Happy Easter to you too!
Hi Susan! You sound so happy! I think of you everyday…painting and humming and creating cuteness! Wishing you a Happy Easter full of sweet sunshine!
Thank you, again, for your wonderful inspirations! I will be, for sure, making that bunny cake! 🙂 I wanted to ask if you could include in your next blog some sort of early spring-y or Easter-y bookmark. I have amassed quite a collection of your bookmarks and have given them to my daughters as well! they are my favorites!
Best,
Nora
I’ll try Nora!
Happy Easter, everyone. I am so glad to hear that Rhonda is feeling better, both physically and mentally. Prayers gone viral – now that is a positive thing!
Thanks to Susan and all her girlfriends who make this world a better place. Let the hallelujahs ring!
That’s the best kind of virus isn’t it??
I am sending my love and prayers to Rhonda. As a too infrequent reader of all the comments, I read her post for the first time today. God’s love is always there with you, and now with the love pouring in from all over the world, I can only believe you will thrive. Susan, you brought back so many warm memories with your bunny cake. My mother made it for her children and grandchildren; her mother made a beautiful butterfly cake (square pan, same cut and reassemble process). Isn’t it wonderful how we women pass on the love and create memories with food. I am trying my hand at big filled, chocolate coated Easter eggs this year because I didn’t order them from the church soon enough. Wish me luck, girlfriends–LOL.
Happy Easter Susan Blessings to you and yours…
I’m continuing to keep you in my daily prayers. Have a beautiful Easter, Susan. You are a ray of sunshine to us all.
I want to wish Everyone a Happy Blessed Easter…..enjoy your families/friends and those of you with little ones have fun watching them hunt for eggs (always a favorite to do with Angela) and they grow up so very quickly believe me. We are expecting rain which isn’t ideal weather; but, this is a day of Celebration so Enjoy!!!!!
Pasg Hapus . . Happy Easter!
We just celebrated my lovely Mum’s 85th birthday, yesterday, and in continuing the Easter theme, and because I can’t decorate for toffee, her birthday cake was covered in those delicious Cadbury mini chocolate eggs . . 😀
I’ve bought a lovely Emma Bridgewater “Feather and Egg” pattern (my favourite) to display all the small chocolate eggs on . .
85! Happy Birthday Deborah’s Mum . . . xo
Awww, Thank You Susan . . she had a lovely day. xo
Hi Susan,
Happy Easter!! I’m looking out my bedroom window at the daffodils and forsythia blooming near the creek at the edge of my backyard. Across the creek is a community parkland that is dotted heavily with colorful eggs awaiting the joyful shrieks of neighborhood children.
Thank you for the bunny cake inspiration. My eight year old granddaughter was so excited when she made the cake yesterday. She said her favorite part was schmooshing the coconut with green and yellow food dye to get the perfect grass color…kept her well occupied while the cake was baking.
Little Miss used brown M&Ms for the eyes and cut dried apricot shapes for the bunny nose and teeth. I also found the white cake mix with sprinkles, but I could not convince her to add the pineapple to the frosting. I’ll add the pineapple to my starving…it sounds yummy!
Bunny cake is beautiful…Little Miss proclaims she will make it every year.
LOL…I meant to say…”I’ll add pineapple to my SERVING.”
I must be “starving” for bunny cake…too funny!
Happy Easter, Susan! And also to Joe, Girl Kitty and JACK!
Wishing you, Susan, and your family and all the girlfriends here ~ a Joyous, Blessed Easter!
TODAY ! at 6 p.m. ET the 1948 Musical “Easter Parade” will air on Turner Classic Movies
With Judy Garland and Fred Astair — so — adjust your time zone …And tune in to Turner Classic Movies on your TV , if you want to watch this classic.
LOVE this movie! xoxo
Good morning, Susan and a Happy Easter to you and Joe,
I’ve been gone for the past week up in Washington looking for a house to buy. We found one and are so happy with the location, etc. Our home here in Eureka went into escrow a couple days ago. It’s offcial now….. so excited!! We will be moving mid April. Busy packing up my craft room right now.
I hope that you and all the girlfriends out there have a great Easter! We have a great Easter service lined up. Lots of singing and praising. Didn’t go to the sunrise service as it was raining and I’m just getting over a cold.
Anxious to hear all about the readiness of ‘our’ book. I’m sure you are very very close now to finishing it up and off to the printer.
Happy Easter!
xoxoxox Carol M
I will have some updates for you on Monday! How exciting, you found a house you like! Congratulations!
Greetings!
Thinking of you today as I look at the lovely blue sky.
Happy Easter to all within the “Heart of the Home!” May you be blessed.
xox
Erica
Zmartwychwstał Pan Alleluja! Weselmy się i radujmy się – Alleluja!
Najserdeczniejsze życzenia świąteczne przesyła- Iza
according to Google translate: The Lord is Risen Alleluia! Let us be glad and rejoice – hallelujah!
Sends best wishes Christmas-Iza .. thank you Iza!
Happy Easter to all the Girlfriends!!
Me too, Happy Easter to Everyone!
Happy Easter Everyone, hope you all had a wonderful Easter and celebrated in ways that made you Happy and you kept the Lord in the center of your day. We were blessed to have our daughter Angela sing during the Church Service a lovely Sandy Patti song “Was it a Morning Like This”. The Congregation was moved to tears and hearing her Praise The Lord with the gift he blessed her with is always so special. Hope you all ate some chocolate bunnies, jellybeans, or something else yummy?? Have a good week and Susan best of luck with finishing up your book always thinking of you :}
I’ll be in to say hello tomorrow … I have three more pages to go, plus a few bits and pieces, be we are close!
Just checking in tonight to let you know I FINALLY made the Bunny Cake this Easter! I had it all prepped and waiting for my 7 year-old granddaughter to decorate this afternoon, and she was so pleased with it that she blew up balloons and hosted an impromptu party for her parents and two sets of grandparents; she did a fantastic job! Thanks again for inspiring young and old alike 🙂
Love hearing that Sharon!
Just discovered, for those that watch….”Call the Midwife” Season 2..starts in just minutes tonight on PBS ! (Pacific Time)…hopefully, followers east of here are already watching or can catch it later on.
I’ve been watching!
I must say…two of the stories were quite disturbing and sad on last night’s season opener. However, I absolutely loved the banter between Nurse Trixie and Sister Evangeline.
Hi Susan~you continue to brighten my day with your posts…makes me happy. I have a question…what is the name of the yellow flowers on the twigs in the tiny vase for the first photo near your dishes and by the first “Spring” banner? (talk about a run on sentence!!!) I have seen it, loved it and would like to plant one…thank you.
It’s from a forsythia bush… one of the first things to bloom here in spring, and something we can also “force” into early bloom.
Hi Susan,
I have faithfully followed you but have never had the nerve to figure out how to comment but wanted to tell you about a place that would be great for a book signing on the east coast if you are still looking . The Women’s Club located in Hagerstown, Md woild be available. We are located 70 miles from Baltimore and Washington and at the crossroads of interstate 70 and 81 so very accessible for many. We are in an historic home built in 1838. The first floor has two parlors, dining room and large auditorium. The Club was formed in 1921 by Mrs. Gant who was Julia Child’s aunt. Julia evidently would visit her aunt in Hagerstown as a young girl. The bedrooms in the home are rented to women.
Please go to our website to see more about our home, club and mission at
Womensclubhagerstown.org.
Thank you for the joy you bring to so many.
Blessings,
Carol Ann
That sounds so nice Carol Ann! Thank you so much, I’ll keep that in mind for when I start figuring out our itinerary.
The book may be finished by now, off to the printer and editors. Jack and Girl Kitty will hire a band to mark the day and celebrate with you and Joe. Well done, Susan. If we lived in Australia we would say “Good on You, Mate.”
Mary Lu Wahl
Thank you Mary Lu. Jack seems to sense this light coming from the end of the tunnel!
Just tried to pre-order your journal but the paypal link would not work.
Try again Kristi!