♥ “gâteau au café café cake caffè torta císte caife kaffe kaka” this coffee cake by any other name would smell as sweet.. though I’d much rather be wandering through a town in Europe this morning, visiting on a bistro chair, bundled against the chill air, in a tiny café with…
fog at daybreak this white-wash oscillates, swells round, muffles bird cry and forlorn queries beckon closing in, a woollen wrapped mist, the morning speaks of cold rain ahead no distant view nor dreams of sea, just gaudy stillness lingers here within set adrift, twittering melodies echo through fog, entreating cries stumbling each to other these waves of rain’s wet mist linger, creep stealthy over…
Bless! What a lovely post to start the morning on, thank you Smidge!
She is a beautiful find! I’m so glad she found her way back to momma. I love this! Your poem too! Your words always move me 
Oh I think dinner is fancy! It looks just incredible!
Beautiful Post – thanks for sharing:)
Wow! The top picture took my breath away. I have this fascination for fog and mist and I always love the mystery they evoke. The poem is an incredible play with words, awesome! 
I can believe you saw God my friend – in a cute, cuddly beautiful form surrounded by the wonders of nature
A wonderful recipe accompanying a most spiritual post – I enjoyed it a lot
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
This is a really lovely post, uplifting and filled with hope. And the pasta is making me hungry!
Your poetry is amazing. I should never read your blog when I am hungry. I may have to go to the store!
Fantastic … speechless …. the photo with the horse is my favorite – beautiful words again combined with wonderful food. You’re an artist. Always nice to do a visit here.
Adore the widdle bunny wunny Great post
Yes, I like the horse too, and your lovely composition Barbara. Come to think of it, the food doesn’t look bad either. Think you’ve just sold me on another post.
What a beautiful little bunny and great that you were able to capture his image. It still looks like it’s pretty cold where you are. That is definitely a wonderful mid-week meal. I love the spring colours and flavours xx
Lovely poem and what a cute bunny! I especially like your last stanza…
This looks heavenly Smidge! I’m a pasta junkie and love finding new recipes that I know I’ll love. Beautiful photos as always! And what a beautiful little bunny.
Beautiful poem and particularly like the image of the horse…so much love in your posts…:)
I am impressed so much by the title and the book that you read… Especially when God was a rabbit… And then these photographs… I can’t believe how found you this lovely rabbit… It is amazing photograph… and so lovely standing… Thank you so much, I am almost lost into the words and photographs… Blessing and Happiness, with my love, nia
Synchronicity! Read about rabbits, see rabbit.
Such a comforting dish this, that bridge between chill wet winter and warmth of spring. Lovely and simple and perfect! And the wabbit! What a gift he be on such a morn, in all the same colors as the blessed day! xoxo
Oh Barb I must make this pasta. I’m trying to scale back this week after too much over-consuming. I’m just staring at that pasta and dreaming about how much I’d love some right now. It has all my favourite flavours in it. I will report back after I make it ….in a couple of weeks when I’m back on track again! Another lovely post.
That looks magical. And what wonderful spring greens in the pasta – and the nuts! – sounds delicious.
The photo of the Alberta landscape on a misty morning speaks to my heart, and makes me yearn to travel west again …
It was a beautiful verse that started your post today, Barb. Very enjoyable. A friend and I were just talking, she about using broccolini in pasta and me using asparagus. We laughed and it was said that we should combine the dishes. Well, you just did and added some edamame in the process. It sounds delicious and I can’t wait to send her the link to this post. And baby bunnies are about the most adorable of infants on the planet. What a great photo of what was “a beautiful find,” indeed!
Your beautiful verse really lifts the flagging mid-week spirits with hope and promise…you capture all things beautiful, Smidge! Even a bunny! I think I’d like to check out the book, too…you found some rather impressive inspiration. And you still found time to create a spectacular dish! The total package! Debra
So beautiful sweetie. What a lovely poem and the photo’s are stunning as usual. Yes, I feel the same every time I am in nature.
Have a great weekend.
*big hugs*
What a lovely post Smidge! I want that bunny! They are such precious little animals.
Mandy
I needed to read this tonight. Refreshing to my soul. And what a wonderful spring dish. I’m preparing this when I return home. The family will love it!
What a brilliant post and lovely poem, so evocative!
Oh the pictures are beautiful and the recipe looks delish, I’m putting it on my menu queue! But the bunny photo steals my heart
He was the sweetest little thing.. or she was lol!
Gorgeous wildlife!! I love these photos. The meal looks delicious too!
I see God in that food for sure. Your work here is almost more than I can grasp with the images, the food, and the poetry. You have many talents it is obvious..which is dominant?
Another read-out-loud post! Love your poetry and pics. And this pasta dish looks lovely, too!
That looks good enough to eat. Loved your poem and photos too.
OMG, Barbara, I was so taken by that wild baby bunny, so sweet. Nature is indeed a delicate balance. Thank goodness that you found that little sweet bunny. Of course, I have a special place in my heart for bunnies, so forgive me for not even looking at the recipe today; that little baby is so sweet.
Eva http://kitcheninspirations.wordpress.com
That’s a very beautiful poem Barbara – a bewitching combination of words.
I love your poem, and your pictures. You paint such a great mental image, I could see the fog in my mind as well as I could in your photographs. I swear my heart has never truly left Alberta, I love fog on the prairies (except when you have to drive in it!).
Oh my that tortellini just looks phenomenal. So creamy!
Thank you for such a beautiful verse! You always brighten my day.
http://christiepepper.com/2012/04/27/some-of-my-favorites/
What a beautiful post. You can almost smell the cool fog in the air with your words… followed by the smell of a delicious dinner. Yum!
Lovely post! I enjoyed the recipe very much, I might try it on Sunday, I like to try new things. Thank you very much for visiting me and following my blog! Nice to meet you! Looking forward to reading more from you and exchanging words!
Regards,
Blaga
God was on your side so you could have those cute little creatures just pose perfectly for your photo shots. Your pasta is so very divine with its springtime flavors.
As always a great post, thank you!
Well, because I am late in my reading this week, it is a good thing my week was fogless until just now, but this was welcome fog for me. Your verse made me see fog as mysterious, intrieguing, wonderous–a place to linger and listen for the voice above all others. Thank you for easing me into my weekend this morning, reminding me to listen closely.
What beautiful poetry, Smidge. Such talent you’ve got. I love that little rabbit, too. And that dish — it looks like something comforting my whole family would enjoy fork after fork.
I’m glad you got a photo of the precious little rabbit before helping it back to its mother.
That was lovely work, that dear little rabbit, a good feed, and that first image so reminded me of home.. have a lovely day smidge. i do hope it is warming up, but it still looks a bit chilly out there.. c
Gorgeous photos and the tortellini looks delicious.
Oh my! The photo of your horse in the birch trees is just magical! I love how you capture moments that elicit such strong feelings and emotion. Thank you! And thank you for the wonderful recipe! It will be on my menu this week along with more batches of Strawberry Shortcake Cookies!! XO
Gorgeous pictures, lovely poem, and a fitting spring dish. Thank you for sharing Smidge!
A lovely poem, beautiful images and a wonderful recipe to top it off. So nice coming over here and always reading these things smidge
Everything about this post made me feel happy to be alive! It´s wet and grey here, but my damp dogs and chickens are all happy to have us back and then seeing this little rabbit made me realise that everyone needs to be looked after!
Thank you for that lovely and peaceful moment in your verse. And for the sweet smile the baby bunny brought! And also for the great and easy recipe for the pasta dish. Such a nice post to read today, albeit that I am out reading belatedly. Thanks for sharing!
oh! that bunny is just too precious!
Your posts are always so beautiful! And the horse and rabbit…gorgeous! I can’t believe you were able to keep yourself from picking that little bunny up and snuggling it.
The pasta looks fabulous, and what pretty colors!
What a quiet and peaceful poem. Thank you for sharing it with us. This is MY kind of meal Barbara. Everything about it from the bright fresh spring green vegies, to the plump tortellinis AND the ease of preparation. This dish screams, “Make me tonight!”
Dear Smidge, what a beautiful post! I just love your subtleness! <3
I just saw her last night.. With mom and two siblings.. Very playful.. So she’s fine, thank goodness!
You’re welcome:)
It’s a cool, but challenging photo subject.. I think you have to have a good composition to contrast it.. Or you can’t really see the fog. Thanks so much, Malou:)
Such a sweet bunny, only about the size of my hand. My brother-in-law said I should have put a penny in the picture so you could get the size perspective.. Oh well…
Thanks, Misky!
Hahaha.. Me too!! Now I’m hungry. I’m usually posting this the next day when I’m starving and there aren’t any left-overs!
I love that photo! The silvery birch.. So Alberta I think. Thank you for your compliments:)
He (she) was weeally weeally widdle.. Only a few inches..
Food.. Schmood.. It’s all about the bunny:) Just kidding.. Glad you liked it:) xoxo
He sure let me get almost nose-to-whisker with him.. He was so sweet!!
Thanks, Gretchen, I love poetry. Words just pop into my head and I race to write them down before they disappear in the “fog” of my day;)
Love pasta.. I think this one is easy to adapt with different soft cheeses and different veggies.. Thank you !! xoxo
I do have lots of <3 ! Thanks!
Very cool to see that bunny so soon after, nia! xoxo
I know, eh? I love when that happens in life.. I think it’s some sort of sign…
Oh, spree.. He was truly a wonderful gift.. Very unexpected, a lovely surprise in my life:)
I’m just getting back on track myself.. I’m going backwards trying to reply to everyone! It’s so easy to get behind. I’m glad you enjoyed this one! xoxo
All a great combination I thought:)
It’s totally an Alberta landscape, isn’t it.. We had fog again this morning… So come on over!
So.. A bit more serendipity in this post then! First books’nbunnies.. Now friends and veggies.. I like that!! Thanks for always leaving the nicest of comments, John!!
Oh, I’m so glad, Debra.. It was a cool morning, listening to birds call to one another in the fog.. Almost surreal!
Oh.. Yes, you would love the bunny and the horse:) *big hugs* back to you, Sonel!!
It’s fun to read then revisit each other’s posts.. So inspiring, I often want to bookmark every recipe to try!
I know, I was dying to pick it up, but afraid the mother would reject her/him..
He sure stole ours.. We saw him with his brothers/sisters yesterday, frolicking around after dark!!
Thanks:) That’s a big compliment coming from you!
Thanks, Brittany!!
He really was so timid and helpless.. You don’t have to look at the recipe.. There’s always lots of those, but not so many little wee cute bunnies!! Xo Smidge
Thank you.. I love writing poetry.. xoxo
Yes.. I forgot to use the sense of smell.. I was pretty caught up in the sight and sounds of it all.. That would have been cool too!!
Thank you, Bam xoxoxo
Xoxo Thanks!!!
And I am so late responding.. Some days are like that, eh?? Crazy! I’m glad you visited.. It’s always a treat!! Thank you for your sweet comments!! xoxo
I was just thinking the bunny would have loved some of that asparagus!!
Yes.. She found her baby.. And we saw two more last night!! So happy family reunited!!
Yes… C!! It’s my little (albeit, very very little) city “farmy”, but not really, lol! You would have loved that little guy, except he would devour your veggies which isn’t a good thing:) xoxo
My favorite photo.. The light and fog made it come out silvery.. And I have no idea why, lol! Oh, those cookies.. I’d like one right now!!
I’m always glad to see you visit.. You were gone for too long, Aimee!! We’re all happy to welcome you back!! xoxo
It’s foggy again today!! You’re right.. We need to just stop and take care of each other:)
Oh, I’m so glad, it’s pretty versatile.. Just use veggies and cheese you have on hand:)
Thanks, Sibella.. It was fun to write…xoxo
That is so nice that they are all back together.
Oh, I can TOTALLY relate to that! Ideas totally leave if I don’t write them down FAST!!
My husband thinks I’m crazy when I leap out of bed in the morning..
Baby rabbits ! I love them too, haven’t seen one for years – and I’d quite like your pasta dish for breakfast – the perils of reading blogs early in the morning – and yours is one of my favourites
I have the same problem.. Or reading them at 4 in the afternoon.. When I’m starving!!
I love the pics of the horse and bunny. And that tortellini looks delicious!
What a lovely blog and a delicious looking recipe! Happiness Stan Lives reblogged your wordpress update on following comments, which is how I found my way to you. I am subscribing right now! We have a rabbit warren on our property, too, but I have never seen the babies nor been able to get such a charming close up. I love your mix of recipes and art. Beautiful mystical photos. Brava.
The photos of the horse and the bunny are marvelous. Thank you.
Lakeside Dream Twittering fourths awaken me from This sweet yawning dream, no Static hum to chafe Or rouse
Green trees … rippling waters … fresh air … coffee … beautiful words … and cakes, can a Sunday become any better ????
But what is hemp hearts ????
They are like pot brownies with the addition of hemp hearts. Appropriate for the 4/20 weekend! LOL!
Loved your poems and your lake house looks divine!
1/4 cup hemp hearts can you tell me what these are? i would like to try making your recipe. it looks good
Oh Smidge, what a dream – “Our Mabel Lake cabin is accessible only by boat..” I had to scroll though your magical photos a couple of times to fully appreciate all the beauty!
I would love to share a coffee and muffin with you while watching the sun rise over the water.
Mandy
The photographs of the lake are so beautiful. It reminds me that I need a vacation!
Your place looks so peaceful…can’t wait to make these but what are hemp hearts?
awesome cookies and that shot of the cabin far across the lake, accessible only by boat.. idyllic smidge! c
Such beauty and you are so blessed indeed hon. Thanks for sharing another yummy recipe! You will have to start an online “weight-less club” as well because we are picking up calories like crazy just by looking at your scrumptious yummies! LOL!
*big hugs*
Photos, poetry, recipe – everything is so beautiful!
I have a weird urge to go to summer camp. Great photos!
Beautiful photos. And the oat cakes look absolutely delicious. I love it when food inspires memories and transports you to someplace you love just by taking a bite!
Sounds idyllic but SO bad for my fillings!
Stunning pictures Smidge and this caben sounds like a little heaven here on earth were you can leave everything behind and reconnect with yourself
Such tantilizing treats for the mind, body, soul, and spirit! now, for the coffee to wash it all down and savor the flavor, another awesome post Smidge!
Stunning photos, Smidge. I can’t wait to get a really nice camera so I can take ‘em like you. Those oatcakes sound yummy too 
This makes me crave summer, porch swings, stories and lots of cups of tea with oat cakes.
Wow – what do I need to do to win a night in the cabin and a sunrise with oat cakes?!
It must be magical to go to your house accessible only by water – your photos and wonderful writing affirm for sure
As for your oat cakes – sipping hot apple juice, eating a cake and watching the sunrise? Heaven of relaxation
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
It must be so relaxing and peaceful at your cabin on the water. It must be a great place to un-wind. I’ve had some holidays at places that are only accessible by boat and find they are the best of holidays because there is nothing to distract you from just resting – something that’s becoming a bit of a lost art. Love how you plan all your meals in advance and get up in the morning in your pyjamas and cook up beautiful things like this (I’ve never heard of hemp hearts though!) Beautiful images. And in summer do you swim in the water? Is it fresh water or salt water? xx
Stunning cabin and location Smidge. Did you go this weekend? Was it cold outside still? I am sure a hot mug of coffee and Mabel’s June oats cakes will warm you up. Take Care, BAM
When going on holiday, few phrases ring so true as “accessible by boat only.” I immediately think of a life far removed from the normal hustle and bustle. And when I hear of “Mabel June’s Oatcakes” I think of an heirloom recipe lovingly prepared. In short, snack food for a place only accessible by boat. Such a wonderful post, Smidge!
Thank you:) I hope you’re enjoying your day? Hemp Hearts are shelled hemp seeds.. (hence the heart of the hemp seed).. it is loaded with omega, proteins, vitamins, minerals, fiber… Mostly sold at Health Food stores or Whole Food type groceries.. Here is our distributor (in Canada) but I think it could be found elsewhere too http://manitobaharvest.com/category/13/Hemp-Hearts.html
xo Smidge
Now that’s a thought? I could be the official Canadian Distributor of Pot Brownies with hemp hearts.. now that would be a business, lol! That’s not our house.. but the boats are in front of the marina and store. I should label my photos! xo
A few have asked.. I’ll edit my post so everyone will know… xo Thanks!
It is such a special place.. we were there lots growing up and lots when Katie and Phil were babies.. but have gotten so busy.. it’s my plan to head out there for a week soon! Mandy, that would be so fun if you could!
You always take us on such a serene and happy journey that ends in delicious food !
Thanks .. my day was a little wet, but otherwise fully okay. I will have a look in our shops, if I can’t find it over here – I will bring it back from US or Canada. Thank you so much for your help.
Thanks .. my day was a little wet, but otherwise fully okay. I will have a look in our shops, if I can’t find it over here – I will bring it back from US or Canada. Thank you so much for your help.
Beautiful voyage through your photographs… and what a delicious recipe… Thank you dear Barbara as wlays you were amazing, with my love, nia
What a tranquil and lovely place! Love the oatcakes, I’m always looking for a new muffin recipe and this one looks tasty
Beautiful lake photos. I always wanted to have a house on a lake. The closest I get is a water view from my bedroom window and summer swims in the Berkeley Marina.
These photos are gorgeous! So bright and sunny. And who doesn’t love a good muffin.
…and you have me dreaming of lakeside cabins!
Great photos and I’ve never heard of hemp hearts. Very interesting!
amazing pics! and thanks for teaching us about hemp hearts
Your only-accessible-by-boat-only cabin sounds and looks so idyllic and peaceful. Mugs of steaming coffee, fresh from the oven muffins and a view of the water; I cannot think of a nicer way to start a day.
Those gorgeous photos make me want to get out of NYC (my concrete jungle) for the weekend!
I love starting the week with your posts Smidge. I really, really, really do. Your poem is just as beautiful as your photos. I wish I was there right now…just lovely my dear. Thank you for taking the time to post all of this, it means a lot to us! I hope you know that
xoxo
Wow..what a peaceful post..love your photos, and Oat Cakes recipe is just divine!
These photos are gorgeous! I want to be on a boat with the sun and trees asap!! These oat cakes look so tasty too. YUM!
I was son intrigued by ‘Mabel June.’ What a great name. And your cabin looks like a little slice of relaxing heaven, you lucky lady. I would be very excited to be your neighbor, if I could have one of these tasty oatcakes.
Smidge, it sounds like absolutely heavenly – the perfect place to unwind and relax. How wonderful that you’re obviously close to your family and enjoy spending time with them!
The oat cakes look wonderful, Barbara, I can imagine the wonderful aroma whafting through the air (remember that Flinstone cartoon where Fred is sleeping but senses an aroma and sleep floats to it’s source? that’s the image I have of your cabin guests. The photos are incredible, you are fortunate to have access to such a lovely place.
Eva http://kitcheninspirations.wordpress.com
Lovely! They look delicious
I’m in love all over again! lol Stunning
Your lake reminds me of the lake in Maine where our summer cottage is. Summers are so special there…the way life used to be. Nice post Smidge.
Oh, how I wish I could visit you at the lake house. How wonderful it sounds and looks. Your poetry is beautiful Smidge. It floats like the water you were paddling on.
Those muffins look fantastic! I would love to wake up to the smell of those baking and be offered a nice steaming cup of coffee. I am so ready for my Smidge bed and breakfast stay….more ready than you’ll ever know.
I think I would love to have a bed and breakfast out there, but the rest of my siblings and my parents might have a thing or two to say about that, lol! And all the grandkids:) and their kids.. Well, you get the drift.. But I could start one here and you could come Stampeding with me!! Hahaha.. Oat cakes makes me think of horses now.. Xo
I have never been to Maine and it’s definitely on my bucket list.. I think you are so fortunate to have a cottage there.. It’s quintessential cottage country in my books (at least according to all the movies I’ve seen that were filmed there!. Thanks, Karen xo
Thanks:)
Thank you Miss BlueJellyBeans:)
Hahaha.. I’m sure I watched all those Flintstones shows growing up.. I think it is something like that for sure:D Thanks so much, Eva.. We feel thankful, my parents bought it sooo long ago and it’s my favorite place to escape!
Some years I go there and I think I just sleep for days on end, trying to catch up from working and looking after the kids and running the house…
It’s a combination of Mabel Lake and my mom’s name June (also my middle name:) It is heaven for sure.. I think it’s my mom’s baking that makes it so:)
Me too… I can’t wait for the summer to come!!!
I’m so glad.. Sarah.. I love beginning Mondays reading everyone’s newest posts.. I try to catch up on the weekend, but this past one was pretty busy, I guess it’s that time of year… Xoxo I’m glad you enjoyed it!!
It’s so peaceful there in the mornings when the temperature is just right… And you can hear the windchimes tinkling.. I love it.. Xo Smidge
They’re so healthy and a totally fun name.. I’m going to have to bake something and use it as the recipe’s title:)
You’re so welcome:)
Me too.. Let’s do it!!
Thank you:) I’ve added a note to the post.. A few people are unfamiliar with them.. They’re quite healthy:)
Yes.. If only I could be there right now!!
Hahaha.. Virtual eating and virtual dieting, why not?
Thank you Marianne!
The one photo of the outboard boat is at the kid’s camp’s dock:) So maybe it looks familiar??
Perhaps.. But you could have just a taste??
I agree.. I think that’s what food does but then writing also takes it back the other way too:)
It’s sure remote.. No cell connection there, which is perfect but difficult to get used to at first!
Thank you so much, Stan.. I love connecting all of those things..
You know.. I used my other camera for probs 7 years.. The difference isn’t in the body of the camera (although some settings are more automated) I find the best advice I’ve gotten is to get a great lens.. It really takes photos to a different level. Then when I got a new camera for Christmas, my good (old) lens still fits the new model, (Canon) so there wasn’t a new expense every time. Cameras are so much fun.. But I already thought you had a good camera.. You do an outstanding job already!?
Yes! And I want to be there, I think I’m itching to photograph new landscapes…
Now that would be a totally awesome contest to have!! I’d better check with my mom and dad first;)
It is a pretty magical place.. I have always felt so at peace there..
It’s all the you say and more, Charlie.. Because of all the memories that were made there too. We jump on the boat and swim in the middle of the lake (lake itch near shore) and it’s icy cold.. So you want it to be in the heat of summer before you do that! Xoxo Oh, and it’s a fresh water lake:)
I wish! My mom and dad are usually there around this time, but this year I might go give them a hand:)
My mom has so many recipes.. I’m just following right along in her footsteps:) Thanks so much, John!
I aim to please:)
I could just see you fitting right in out there, nia.. With your camera…
It turned out delicious.. Thanks Karista! xo
It’s wonderful that you are near to a body of water.. I’d be there a lot, I think. As it is.. We get out there in the summers, but with busy kids and their schedules, not as often as I’d like or we used to. Thanks, Sharyn!
Exactly:)
hehehe, now that is a great idea! LOL!
Stunning photos and magical evocative words. you have painted a beautiful picture of your lakeside cabin, of the smells and sounds and the quiet. I love watching water and I know I’d sit on that porch and just wonder and stare. And if someone were to bring me a mug of coffee and an oat cake I would sit happily all day!
Your poetry combines the ebb and flow of water and wind and nature’s sounds… and subtle plumes of aroma from something warm and made with love.
I have to agree with Greg.. I do feel like I want to go to summer camp and have sing-alongs after reading this post . Just beautiful Ms. Barbara .. simply beautiful
So lovely – what a slice of heaven.
I hope so:)
As always, this has been a pleasure! Great work; you combine prose, a beautiful design and wonderful ingredients to create something truly special, young lady.
Good for you!
Lovely words pairing with lovely images, beautiful water morning, a bit of chill, hot coffee and warm hearted muffins. How you brought me there, how fed I feel! Thank you Smidge! xox
Nummers! What beauty here in photos and word. And those muffins sound so cozy in that love-filled place…and this one, too.
Thanks so much, Hook.. I always enjoy your visits:) Good luck on your book!
It’s a cozy world, Mabel Lake:)
It’s the wonderful chill that breezes in off the icy lake in the mornings there.. that warms my heartxoxo
What a haven…who would ever want to leave your wonderful lake cabin. What a special place! And I’m a fan of oak cakes, but these are a big step up from any I’ve previously enjoyed. I’m thrilled to have a good recipe! As always, Smidge, you have so many lovely things to share! Debra
Mabel Lake Cabin – now that has a nice ring to it. Lucky you!!
[...] begin on a poetic note with Mabel June’s Oat Cakes, at Just a Smidgen. The author’s poetry combines the ebb and flow of water and wind and [...]
I can’t help but wonder where Mable Lake is located. Is it in BC or Alberta? Makes me wish summer was here already!
Not me! Too late, I did and I’m home, lol! I’d love to be out there, but responsibilities can get in the way, eh?
I used to love oatcakes when I was a kid. I must try your recipe.
Preface Here I stand, one instant from you Just one shift forward, just one glance One touch to startle, then to move, as Lashes brush.. and fingers dance. Tip to tip caress, soft hands touch Slides silken through yielding hair. Sweet breath on skin, joyous lends Waves of ecstasy there. Hold and breathe, face to…
So you make AMAZING treats and write beautiful, meaningful poetry? You’re like superwoman!
Spring drops; strawberries drop, beautiful poetical words drop on my desk now… Thank you dear Barbara, it was so nice. Have a nice weekend, with my love, nia
I LOVE the poem and the shortbread cookies are just fantastic!
Cookies beautiful as … the poem … sweet, tangy and delicious. Photos are so inviting!
Whew! Now that is quite the tantalizing poem! Just beautiful and full of passion. Got me right in the mood for date night this weekend. And those shortcake cookies – um, one word… fabulous!!!!! I know these wouldn’t last a day here.
I love the poem and the cookies are a given haha. I love how you interplay poetry to food.
Your photos are drool-worthy!
i always want a piece of that cake on your profile page, and now i want the strawberries also. thank u for sharing
These look oh so tempting! And you’re right, absolutely perfect for a picnic – can’t wait!
The poem is beautiful! I love it! The pictures are too. What a gorgeous way to start the weekend Thanks Smidge!
I love your romantic poem. SInce I read your cute skipping rhyme I have been racking my brain trying to remember some of skipping songs I knew as a child but I am drawing a blank.
Really yum, Smidge. You always manage to make me drool! Just you wait until you see my strawberry/shortbread invention!
This looks fabulous.
Again on diet but will save this…strawberry season coming
Loved your poem and I will definitely try those cookies! Have a great weekend!
I heart strawberry shortcake, so might have to give the cookie version a whirl – thanks for sharing. Have a Great Weekend!
Its that time of year. Just bought some fresh strawberries from Ponchatoula. Their strawberries are so sweet they even have a festival there around them. Of course in Louisiana we have festivals for everything. Thanks again! I adore you
No matter if I have eaten or not…every time I read your post…I crave something delicious! oh, and coffee….
They look sooooooo yummy but I cannot eat them 
Allergic to strawberries.
Your post reflects the beauty taste and love these shortcake cookies display beautifully – Je l’adore ma amie!
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Oh strawberries…maybe they will have ripe ones at the market tomorrow.
These look amazing! Perfect for spring!
Who else could make these more flavourful indeed! A strawberry shortcake cookie is such a clever idea and the lemoncello/zest sounds like a perfect addition for spring. I can see why you don’t need to worry about storing these little gems.
Oh, poor Teri. DIBS on her strawberries!
Small wonder why you went all Spring on us. You were listening to Copland, for heaven’s sake! Too bad the Maestro is no longer with us because I would have sent him a “Thank You” for inspiring you to make these strawberry shortcake cookies. I like everything about these cookies, Barb. What a great way to celebrate Spring’s arrival!
Beautiful, beautiful poem! You were inspired! The cookies are something else! So rich with the cream and I love that the strawberries are just chopped! They have to be good! Debra
Hahaha.. I have a cape.. no, sadly, it’s an apron:) Thank you!
Now you’re being so lovely and poetic, nia.. thank you for your words too:) xo I hope you have an awesome weekend!!
Glad you liked it:) xo
It was tricky to photograph.. such a bright light in the mornings.. but it was a fun one:) Thank you!
Yay… date night! I hope you have an awesome time.. and a relaxing weekend!
Haha, thanks:)
That was a great cake!! I have to have another friend/family birthday so I have an excuse to make another massive cake!!
I saw buds on one (yes, 1) tree today.. so I have hope:) Always the optimist!
I hope you have the best weekend, Sarah!! Have lots of fun!! xoxo
Let me think.. and get back to you.. I remember this one (obviously;) but the rest I actually can see the double dutch ropes, the elastic ropes.. and skipping in pairs.. but the verses are escaping me right now.. but they’re in here somewhere and when I remember I’ll post them for you:) xoxo I know part of one always ended in “pitch, patch, peppers”
Yay.. quick, make it and post it so I can add a link-up:)
Glad you liked them!
When you’re ready.. they’re not too sweet:)
You too, Susie!! I hope you have tons of fun planned!
They taste very similar but more tender, if that makes sense? Less biscuit and more soft cookie in crumb:) You too!!
Oh.. now festivals for strawberries would be awesome! We have so few here.. at my parent’s cabin at Mable Lake (in B.C.) there is always a Wednesday morning Strawberry Tea.. Loved going to that! I xo you!!
Hahaha.. you know, you’re so right.. I always crave a hot cup of coffee as well!! Must be the perfect combination:)
I’ve set them aside;) I am so sorry for you Teri.. but I was thinking blueberries would be fantastic as well.. and maybe the addition of a little oatmeal.. It would be oatmeal to go!! Lol.. I’m going to have to try that one soon!
Ahhhh.. you’re just the sweetest ever:) xoxo
If you find fresh strawberries at your market.. I will be forever lurking around your blog to see what you make with them:)
I was thinking a Mother’s Day gift.. they would be pretty in a little box, eh?
Hahaha, kinda bragging there;) But they needed “something”.. the first batch were a bit bland, I thought!
Hahaha.. I just bet he would be disturbed to learn that his masterpiece inspired strawberry cookies!! I’m guessing that would be just about the last thing that would have entered his mind!! But not mine:D You’re welcome! Yay, Spring!
Some days are just like that.. I can always tell.. music, a few comments or words.. and off my imagination goes:) I’m glad you liked this, Debra!! xoxo
I love your poetry Smidge! These are perfect for picnic season and it does seem you can make them quite quickly and I’m all for that! They look beautiful xx
Yummy
What a lovely poem hon and oh, that looks so yummy! Please email me some! LOL!
Stunning post as usual hon! Have a stunning weekend!
*hugs*
Beautiful words and beautiful cookies – perfectly balanced.
Mandy
I am feeling super romantic after reading this post. Want to make a batch of these and then put on a long floaty dress, sit in a swing chair in the garden and look like a heroine in a romantic novel – except I won´t be nibbling delicately, I´ll be scoffing them!
Wow! I love these strawberry shortcake cookies. I’ve been looking for the next type of cookies to bake apart from the chocolate ones now so this one comes along just at the right time. Thanks for sharing the wonderful recipe, Smidge. I can’t wait for the weather to warm up. I can imagine bringing these cookies to a picnic with my little girl dressed up in something flowery and picking flowers in the meadow.
I’ve not tried strawberry shortcake cookies but they look totally yummy!
Believe it or not, the rhubarb is flowering already, so it is time to make pie. I will check out some of your rhubarb recipes…
Hahaha.. love to see that!!
Oh.. I can too.. she must have a “roomful” of pretty spring dresses:) Adorable!!
Lucky, lucky you!!
Poems and picnicable strawberry shortcake…you are somthin’ else! Also, the morning light photos are fantastic.
I was the first sunny day in a while.. It’s beautiful again today.. Just going to get changed and take the pup for a walk:) Have a wonderful weekend!! xoxo
Thanks! The first round will probably go to traditional strawberry shortcake, since we won’t have had it for nearly a year.
Oh yum! Cannot wait to try this! I’ll let you know how it goes! BTW…beautiful poem! Your posts always make me smile and sigh!!
I’m so glad:) xo
Oooooooo! Now that sounds more like it!!!!
Strawberry cookies! Wonderful idea … beautiful poem and photography, too. It made me feel happy to look at your post.
I would love an invitation to tea please
“In mine, in yours, in sweet time devour
This passion, generous and timely spent
Hold tight to this love’s fragrant hour
This time, perfection.. heaven sent.”
I read this line over and over, reminded of my hubby’s return home after a business trip this week…savoring, savoring.
I found your work from several of my favorite bloggers’ comment pages. I am in admiration of the poetry and the food juxtaposed in a single post. Whimsical with something much deeper and much sweeter at the end Cheers!
I know it’s not polite to drool, but I am anyway! I spotted the first strawberry flower yesterday – hurah, and eventhough it will be a while before I taste these morcels of sweetness and summer, I can still drool at your recipe and photos
The version with blackberries sounds good. I was at a 40s tea dance this afternoon (a first but not a bad way to spend a Saturday) and there were VERY nice scones and old fashioned cheesecake.
What a sweet post, I couldn’t think of a better way to introduce strawberry shortcake cookies! It’s amazing how much those first few days of warmer weather can make us all turn into such romantics! They look delicion too.
Do you have local strawberries ALREADY? I am sooo jealous, Smidge; our strawberries are still from California. The cookies look and sound wonderful. And what a sweet poem.
Eva http://kitcheninspirations.wordpress.com
What a beautiful poem, very romantic indeed and what a delightful recipe. Maybe I’ll give it a try one of these days. And that’s also a nice soundtrack for what seems to be a beautiful day.
These cookies look so great! How creative to make strawberry shortcake into a cookies. I’m pinning these for strawberry season!
Strawberry, strawberry. I want to eat you. OK, Ill leave the poetry to you. These look awesome.
These sound and look marvelous! Again, you make me want to cook more! When I lived on Orcas Island in Washington State, my parents listened to CBC2, I’m pretty sure – is that the all-classical station? Lots of memories there! (We only got Canadian TV channels and mostly Canadian radio, as well.)
They look like little icecream scoops on a serving plate. Lovely poem Smidge.
Gorgeous! Made my mouth water just looking at the pictures! I don’t think I would have any problem eating those in 1 day. Ha!
You and I are definitely on the same wavelength lately! First Fish tacos and now Strawberries and lemon. Wish we could have tea together.
Great food-minds think alike:) I would love that, Geni.. But I think we live so far apart? It would be wonderful to bake something together and sit and chat!
I had only three left.. And they do go soft, I think reheating in the oven would do the trick:)
Hahaha.. You’re so funny.. Which is why I enjoy reading your posts:)
Yes!! It’s the Classical station… Until later in the day when it shifts to jazz and other styles.. I love listening to it!
They do:D Thanks!!
A wonderful idea! Yummy!
Oh you! cookie-baking cake-frosting brush-weilding aproned cellist poet lover-of-life Smidge! You are such a delight and inspiration! Thank the good lord for the likes of you!
And thank You for this cookie! I think I’ll try it with blueberries And of course your brilliant addition of limoncello!
Spree!! Where have you been (well, I know, now… babies will do that to you;) I’m so happy to have you visit.. now if only it was in my kitchen with a cup of jo, I’m going to have to seriously look at that house for sale beside you!!
I am going to make this! Yummy!
BE ENCOURAGED! BE BLESSED!
♥ Walk at Dawn dawn’s stealthy creep across soft and warm wooden floor to scarved woollen face, mittened hand and leashed collar earnestness clicked in place then door slammed while wild white cotton snow swirls around blanketed sky… and longing creeps stealthy down Barbara Bamber, March 2012
Oh yum! The sequel
I could happily eat this on a cold day — or a rainy one.
Looks like my bro and dad know what they want for dinner
You make even my mouth salivate! It looks fantastic!
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Looks fabulous – it’s going to rain tomorrow maybe I’ll just try these.
Oh I saw this recipe the other day and it looked great, and now you’ve made it it looks great. regardless of snow – we currently have plenty of the white stuff on the slopes but now have blue skies which would be perfect for thise dish!
How wonderful that you made it – it did look good (both times)! Hope things warm up for you – but maybe not as you want to enjoy those leftovers
You have the right idea lady, bone in is the only way to go!
My mouth is watering, my hands are getting shaky, and I find it rough to type this message to you Barb.. because these short ribs look so darn delicious. I mean wow.. yes I love this
I checked this one out at the Bartolini Kitchens, too! And now that you’ve both highly recommended it – it has to go on my to-do list for sure.
I’m envisioning enjoying this with lots of extended family around the table, great conversation and a good bottle of wine. We’re talkers in our family, so I imagine we’d be there for quite awhile. This looks perfect for that kind of gathering, Smidge!
I like the very evocative lines ‘wild white cotton snow – swirls around blanketed sky’. The recipe sounds yum and a glass of a Super Tuscan with the beef ribs – well that’s perfection.
Yum!
So glad that you not only liked the recipe but that you blogged about it, as well. You took such great pictures, Smidge, that it looked far better than mine ever did! Thank you for treating my recipe so kindly!
Well, that’s not true.. yours was so tempting it compelled me to try it out so I could taste it:) You’re always so welcome…
What a mouth watering recipe, Barbara, and it’s making me want to head back over to John’s blog and try this recipe before it gets too warm to eat these types of foods.
I was going to ‘borrow’ this recipe. I’ve been waiting patiently for the weather to cool down a bit before I start slow roasting. It just looks like the best comfort food with so many flavours and yes, perfect with a glass or two of red. I definitely will be making this but probably not until after Easter xx
Snow?! Gasp! Well, these would be the perfect way to pick me up on a snowy day. I know we’ll be trying these.
Making me droooool – looks delicious!
You will be so glad you did!! Perfect for a cooler day!
Honestly, it’s one of my family’s favorites now:)
I know!!! Snow!! And lots of it.. Why couldn’t it stay in January where it belongs??
It was an awesome recipe:)
It was so much like the cotton we get from trees here in the late summer..
I’m so glad I had that effect on you.. John’s really an awesome cook, er, chef!!
You sure won’t be disappointed!
Now that sounds like a lot of fun! We are a chatty bunch when we’re all together too. I was thinking this would be a great recipe for company because it goes in the oven early and just stays there!
And it looks so much prettier too!
Still more snow today.. I’ve almost given up… Oh well!
You’re right, it would be perfect for that ski trip!!
I’m drooling while looking at the photos. It’s such a comfort food for me!
You definitely made John proud here Smidge, beautifully done! We are heading into winter – not fun although we don’t get snow – anything below a perfect summers day is cold for me.
Mandy
this looks positively YUM
I also seen this on John’s post and thought to myself this is one rocking meal. So did your version fall off the bone too? Love the new photo Smidge, Take Care, BAM
Wow that looks amazing!
It’s kind of neat when different bloggers head into different seasons and different food choices because of it. I look forward to seeing what you make!
It sure did.. one of our family’s “keeper” recipes for sure now.
Now that you’ve borrowed Chicago John’s recipe and done such beautiful things with it, I bet he’d like to see it back! At least a big plate of it! xoxo
Gorgeous and mouth watering! I have a whole list of John’s recipes to try. I need to get on that!
I never know which I love more…your photos or the awesome recipes. You are a genius and btw I so LOVE the new profile pic. You are beautiful!
Beautiful poem to start out the post! I thought John’s recipe was lovely when I read it at his site, but I still read every word of it again…I took in the smells and tastes–I swear I can enjoy it even from a distance. I am sure you have spread even more comfort by extending the timeline on this winning recipe! Debra
Oh my gosh, I want a serving of those RIGHT NOW! Braised short ribs are one of my favourite meals, nice work
Hahaha, yes.. wonder what John’s got up his sleeve??
That’s so true!
This is definitely a man’s meal:)
I hope you do, they’re highly recommended!!
His recipe made it so easy to succeed!!
WOW they look incredible !
John is an amazing cook…
by Barbara Bamber | justasmidgen
Pumpkin yumminess!!!
So much to say, Barbara: what a great idea doubling the recipe and making two cakes! Why didn’t I think of that years ago? And as for Europe, I do hope you make it over here to England one of these days. It’s worth the wander…
I’ve been there a few times.. but it’s never enough, is it:) I can’t wait to visit again!
I want
. Love the poem…
Thanks, Boomie! xx
Years ago, I purchased an old, battered copy of Thomas Carlyle’s Sartor Resaurtus (I had to read it for a class), Tucked inside its pages was a piece of paper note. On one side were scribbled notes about Carlyle and his background. On the other side was a recipe for cake and frosting. I always though of the note writer–a woman from the late 1890s–mixing a cake and propping the heady book up to read as she did so. Somehow your poem reminded me of that strength.
Everything about this post Smidge, gorgeous. The poem has a haunting beauty about it, and the way you’ve “mounted” it feels simply perfect. Your photos are so lovely and set such an autumn mood, rapidly waning light, chill outdoors, huddling in, and the smells of baked pumpkin and cinnamon! This is just about all a person would crave or need on a wet and blustering day like ours…just this, and a fire and someone to share it with. Thank you for sharing you with us! xx
A stunning poem with mounting excitement for the big entry of the double batch of pumpkin coffee cake. What perfect timing! I have to bake for the bake sale this upcoming week and your have already doubled the recipe for me… Sounds like the perfect treat for this task. Take care, BAM
I have some pumpkin puree in the freezer (Ooooo … the real stuff) from Thanksgiving just waiting for the right recipe to come along. THIS one will make my kids sing for their dessert. Thanks, B!!
I have some pumpkin puree in the freezer (Oooo … the real stuff) from Thanksgiving, just waiting for the right recipe to come along. THIS one will make my kids sing for their dessert. Thanks, B!!
This looks so wonderful! Can’t wait to try it!
What an incredibly lovely cake, and freezing the second one is pure genius, Smidge. Perfect spices too for this dreary rainy day— of course, it’s still better than a foot of snow
This looks utterly scrumptious
Your poem is beautiful and the pumpkin coffee cake looks absolutely superb!
How wonderful a memory.. the book, the recipe.. the note you’ve found. I think there’s a poem in here too… thanks for visiting here this morning! xx
It sounds like your weather is not ideal, too, spree.. although, I think I see hoar frost gathering on the chickadee-filled branches of the tree outside my window this morning.. I have a lot to be thankful for:) xx
Thanks.. it was a lovely cake, I can’t wait to defrost the other! I hope it works for your bake sale! ps.. the first poem was spectacular too, until a wordpress glitch deleted it when I hit “save”.. I was quite distraught!! Lesson learned.. to copy and past to Word first before hitting save! Have a great day! xx
I’d love to hear them sing!! I hope you enjoy this as much as I did! xx
Thanks.. it’s a pretty one!
Haha.. trying to get smarter about my baking:) Yes, rain is better I think, well, the snow is looking awfully pretty.. just freezing!!
Thank you, Tandy:)
I loved how it turned out just as I saw in the other photos.. it’s a photogenic cake, I think;)
I love that poem, so evocative of the moment. And I love the way you framed it on the manuscript paper. It’s lovely to see an unusual recipe featuring pumpkin. Here, I usually only hear of pumpkin pie or soup, and since I’m going to have two pumpkin centres to use up in a household that’s never really eaten pumpkins before it’s nice to know there are all sorts of ideas.
xx
Beautiful Cake – thanks for sharing a great recipe, especially for during the holidays and get togethers. Happy Sunday:)
Gorgeous cake! I’m sure that it’s going to be the hit of your EO meeting!
I love reading your recipes because they are always so inventive. I wish I could write poetry – your poem is a wonderful and thoughtful gathering of words – I especially love the vivid imagery in the last verse.
I love that cake, I really, really do…..but….that poem Barb. It is just perfect…beautiful. I love it so much.
You certainly have a way about you that just makes my day….
Your first couple of photos sent me to heaven my friend, brilliant
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
I am thankful that looking at your photos doesn’t put on weight…because I would have been a little heavier since following your blog….every post is filled with joyful expectation. Yummy comes to mind…
Just beautiful!
Barbara, another stunning post .. love your poem and the layout of, so beautiful.
Then we come that stunning cake – wow …. !!! Next time I go to the states do I have to buy pumpkin puree.
Not to be find at any supermarket. Thanks for the indulgence
Such a beautiful post, Barb. The verse, photos and that cake. Oh, the cake! Everything fits together so perfectly but that cake! It’s the streusel. I see streusel and my heart skips a beat. Get this: for the first time ever, I actually have 5 cups of pumpkin purée that I made yesterday in the fridge. (YAY!) So, this cake, this wonderful streusel-topped cake, is very close to becoming my reality. Now, all I need do is finish the apple pie I baked so that I can clear the deck, so to speak, to make room for coffee cake. It’s not even Thanksgiving yet and I can feel the belt tightening around my waistline. (You’d think in this day and age they’d figure out a way to make leather that doesn’t shrink in Fall & Winter’s cold weather.)
I will let you know how mine turn out. In the meantime, I’m “pinning” this recipe so that I can keep track of it. Thanks for sharing.
Loved your poem, got mesmerized by the words and “atmosphere”
great cake too, coming to your blog is always such a pleasure!
You are an angel Smidge! Shall we go and sit in the cafe and watch the world go by while sipping a coffee and eating a cake?!
Looking rather amazing – seriously. Beautifully decorated!
So let me get this straight: you write beautiful poetry, you raise wonderful kids, you bake and you’re no slouch in the looks department, either? To top it off, you even find time to visit Wattpad and comment on your friend’s stories?
How do you do it all and stay sane?
Beautiful cake! And I feel your wanderlust.
The top of your cake looks absolutely gorgeous!
Hahaha.. I work too, don’t forget that one;) You’re awesome yourself.. I’ve been sick, so that means lots of time home tucked under a blanket with my computer! Thanks!
Oh no… Barbara. However I am sure the words were all still there in your mind, just had to get them back on to paper. IT glitches are the worst. Take Care, BAM
I love the idea of the cinnamon in the glaze, I can see how that would be amazing flavours with the walnuts. And you did such a pretty job of drizzling it too, looks so decadent.
I made a pumpkin spice cake, but I will definitely try this! I must have had a premonition since I looked on your blog for it on Monday before I made it from an online recipe! Hahaha!
A fantastic poem, Smidge, and you’ve baked not one but two cakes! And this coffee pumpkin cake looks so delicious and just perfect for an afternoon tea. I’m about to start making my Christmas cakes. I always make more than one as they are a wonderful gift and so like you, I’ll have my kitchen benches full of ingredients with many cakes on the go at once xx
Looks like a wonderfully moist cake.. and I cant say how much I actually love streusel on coffee/tea cakes. Love the addition of a different texture which makes it lovely to eat. and that poem of yours is simply dreamy and beautiful! xx
Thank you.. it’s fun finding backgrounds. A blogging friend suggested I do so to enable her to click and print out a poem if she likes it. So now I get to be creative with the setup:) I know you’ll have fun with your pumpkin.. it can be used in so many recipes! xx
Thank you!! I hope you have a lovely week.. are you anywhere near the storm? xx
We’ll see about that, I think they will like it.. but these gals are on different dietary restrictions;) Thankfully I’m not:D
I think anyone can write a poem.. it is your own voice we would enjoy “hearing” when we read it. Everyone has the right to their own style of voice and poetry, I think… and thank you so much!! xx
I have to thank you.. because of you I look for poem backgrounds know that will fit the poem.. so much fun:) I hope you have a wonderful week too!
Thanks CCU.. but I thought you were already in heaven.. you seem like an angel to me.. or maybe the chocolate fairy;)
Oh, dear, I have to share my treats or I would be heavier as well:) Thanks so much!
Thanks!
I have the same problem here.. I read about so many neat ingredients and I can’t believe no one carries them.. it’s time I opened a store, lol!
Oh, I knew you were making puree! It’s just the best because it’s so versatile! No need to clear your apple pie deck too soon.. slowly and savoring every bite would be my idea of a way to enjoy that pie!! I keep forgetting you haven’t had Thanksgiving yet, I’m so glad our Christmas and Thanksgiving are a little further apart… it gives me more time to exercise before Christmas, lol! I’ve given up on leather.. gone to cotton and stretchier fabrics:D Have an awesome week!
Thanks, Sally.. I’m always so glad when you visit:) xx
Now that would be just fantastic.. what sort of cake would we find in, say, Italy, at this time of year? I can only imagine!
That’s what caught my eye when I saw this recipe.. it’s simply the effect of the nuts covered by lashings of glaze, but it looks pretty striking. It was fun to do!
Soon, I hope! Wouldn’t it be great?!
Thanks:) xx
The drizzling was fun, I have to admit:) xx
Too funny.. we must be on the same wavelength!! xx
Christmas cake!! Yay!! I haven’t made one for years.. decades actually, what is wrong with me?! I can’t wait to see your recipe and photos!!
I love the streusel bit as well.. I almost could have put more in the center and less on top, but it was hard to judge with two cakes on the go:) Thanks so much for your kind words!
And when you share, the calories shrink in proportion to your sharing. It really is the best of all worlds…
We must be! Hahaha!
What a beautiful cake. I love the glaze that drips so perfectly over the streusel. The poem is really perfect for the occasion! You are so multi-talented, Barbara!
Wow, looking at that just made me speechless…..
Cinnamon Streusel Pumpkin Coffee Cake sounds just perfect and looks the part too!
Mandy xo
how beautiful poem… and your cake seems that I can eat them all
Thank you dear Barbara, love, nia
the poem evokes a feeling of satisfaction a yet longing. And the cake is just perfect! We have enough pumpkins to add this to the rotation! Just lovely!
Fantastic photos Barbara, just makes me want to take a big bite out of this scrumptious cake!!
Stunning, photos, poem and cake! I wish we could sit down for a slice and a cup of coffee right now Barb!
Wow, that coffee cake looks downright professional, gorgeous, and delicious!
Oh YUM! Mail me a slice?
So beautiful, Smidge! I was drooling when you first put the photo up on IG!
Wow Barbara! That cake is beautiful… you are an artist
Your muse stands close to you at your writing desk and in the kitchen… Both pieces, your writing and your cake are full of depth and lovely. …x
Beautiful, both the cake and the poem.
Another lovely, lovely post and a beautiful cake. I love coffee cakes. I always used to make a cinnamon coffee cake for my Dad. He’s gone many years now, but when I make it my daughter still exclaims, “Petje’s cake!.” Recipes hold so much more than instructions for baking … memories, a sense of family, a feeling of being in the company of a loved one gone but somehow near.
Thanks so much, Debra.. it was an easy one to make pretty!
Hahaha.. if you had a piece, you’d be speechless to.. busy eating:) Wish I could send you some!
It really is a great seasonal recipe.. that’s why I had to make it!
Thank you nia.. I wish you could have a piece with me!
Thanks.. it’s great to get a bit more detailed feedback on the effect of a poem:) I can just imagine how many pumpkins you have!!
Yay for Instagram.. it’s a great place to visit when I’m out and about!
I hadn’t thought of it that way, Wendy, thank you! xx
I think that’s why there are so many food writers/bloggers out here.. it is so much more than about the food! xx
Thanks, Richard!
I think the cake pretty much decorates itself it’s so quick.. but I still say Thank you!!
How does one mail food? I know companies do it.. but to make it survive the ordeal and look pretty? I’ve always wondered!
It’s such a pretty and easy cake to make.. I like that in a cake;)
Me too, Geni.. it would be great to have all of us meet for a cup of joe and some cake one day!
Thanks, Rhoda.. I took a few big bites:D
I’ve never really thought about it, actually… I suppose with custom-made packing boxes and refrigerated cartons? (And exorbitant shipping costs! lol)
Barbara if you ever end up in europe then I better be there to meet you and then I can take u to some cool places to hang out! =D
If you do come please bring that coffee cake, it looks so perfect addictive and wanton!
Looks absolutely unbelievably delicious! Might have to try a gluten free/dairy free version. Beautiful poem.
Thank you for this gift, Smidge. The beautiful cake, that gorgeous poem and the way you made something lovely from loss. How perfect all of this love is for a fall day.
You are so clever with words, sure wish I had a tiny, tiny bit of your words talent.
Great idea to double a recipe and freeze, doesn’t take much more time at the moment but sure saves a great deal of time and comes in so handy at a later date.
I know … I come and help you !!!!! We can sell beautiful cakes … and fantastic salads too … *smile
Simply gorgeous Barb. Your photos convey the same feeling as a warm cozy blanket — you just want to curl up with a piece of that cake and a cup of tea . . . and then call in sick. Lovely.
Heavenly Smidge! And I can just get lost in your poetry. It always makes me think, relax and feel inspired.
Oh I do love me some coffeecake and that topping looks heavenly to me!
I have tasted pumpkin pie for the first time a few weeks ago and I found it lovely. this looks and sound even better! thanks for sharing. xox
[...] “caked-out” from my daughter’s birthday and the Cinnamon Streusel Pumpkin Coffee Cake [...]
You know what??? I would happily have 2 slices of this cake… it looks amazing! I was so tempted to buy a slice of coffee cake when we were in the US last week, but I resisted. This one has got my name all over it. Thank you for sharing the recipe.
I have missed so many of your posts, I made myself a cup of ginger honey tea and I am ready to catch up
This blew me away! this has to be the most amazing cake I have seen with pumpkins in a long time!
I have guests coming over tomorrow and I have already made everything but I just might get up early just to make this!
Perfect pairing of food and words!
You forgot the butter in the batter ingredients- (I think it’s 2 sticks or 1 cup)
Thank you!!!