Grandmother Vase

I wanted to make a special hostess gift for our granddaughter Katy’s other grandmother . . . a wonderful, fun-loving lady who hosted Katy’s first birthday party earlier this month. When I read this sweet post and tutorial by Kim of Craft•Create•Connect, I knew I’d found just the right one . . . a tiny bottle vase in which to display a little flower Katy lovingly picks or a pretty leaf or feather she finds. Simply find or purchase a glass bottle (this one was less than $2 at Michaels), attach one or more charms around the neck (I used raffia-covered wire), and you’re done!  And how lucky was I to find this adorable little “K” charm??? Thank you for all you do for the family we both love, dear Lydia! ♥

Grandma Leona’s Chocolate Cake

I haven’t been baking much lately since Dave and I are both working on our New Year’s resolutions for healthier eating.

BUT . . . yesterday was Valentine’s Day, right?

And Valentine’s Day was MADE for chocolate, right???

I still remember sitting in my grandmother’s kitchen copying down this recipe from her file box when I was a new bride.

It’s just as delicious as ever!

Thank you, Grandma! ♥

 

In a large bowl, blend and set aside:

• 2 cups sugar
• 2 cups flour
• ½ tsp salt

In a heavy pan, blend and bring to a boil:

• 1 stick butter
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup oil
• ¼ cup cocoa

Pour the hot liquid over the dry ingredients and beat until smooth. Add:

• 2 eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 tsp baking powder

Beat until smooth. Pour into prepared large cake pan and bake 30 minutes at 325 degrees.

Five minutes before the cake is done, blend and bring to a boil the following:

• 1 stick butter
• 6 Tbsp milk
• 4 Tbsp cocoa

Pour over 1 lb of powdered sugar. Add 1 tsp vanilla and beat until smooth.

Punch holes in the hot cake with a fork or toothpick and pour the hot frosting on top. Let cool and serve.