IS THAT REALLY A CAKE?

In November of 2008 I shook off my veil of flour, rolled my last sheet of fondant, and said au revior to my love, my nemesis -- CAKE ~ taking a much needed, indefinite hiatus from the Cakerie. I am pleased to report that my health, my happiness, and my family are much better for it. But, since closing down my website, I've had requests from friends and fans of my sculpted cake art for access to a gallery of my work. I'm honored, flattered, and tickled (just not enough to nudge me out of retirement. Following are some photos of my favorite creation, "Crab Cake with a Squeeze of Lemon." To the right of this post you'll find a slideshow of some of my other favs.

ROOK No. 17 ~ The Help Nest

You are invited to submit your questions and requests for recipes, craft tips, entertaining ideas, resource referrals, culinary techniques, tutorials, and troublshooting, etc.

Visiting the Monterey Peninsula? Rook No. 17 can steer you clear of the tourist traps and point you toward the unique, the original, and the real.

Whether traveling California's central coast, or cruising the net for the best chocolate cake recipe, smart birds flock to Rook No. 17.

ROOK No. 17 ~ Favorite Child & Baby Sources

GYPSY MONKEY -- Heather has created the most unique, high quality, exquisite batik clothing line for kids at http://www.gypsymonkey.com/. See pic of Max below in her gypsymonkey original.

GIGGLE -- http://www.giggle.com/index.aspx -- mod baby furniture, decor and clothes

NORDIC KIDS -- http://www.nordickids.co.uk/ -- funky baby clothes and accessories from designers all over the world.

SPUNKY SPROUT -- http://www.spunkysprout.com/ --
"For A Modern Child’s Lifestyle: Stimulating Toys + Modern Designs + Quality Organics + Contemporary Gifts"

INNOVATIVE BABY -- http://www.innovative-baby.com/ -- "Innovative Baby was founded on the notion that families are best served with products of exceptional quality that enhance the experience of parenting. Many of the companies that we represent utilize environmentally-sound products and procedures and support the global community through various methods of outreach."

DAMESTAR BABY -- http://www.damestarbaby.com/ -- these two dynamic moms bring you their line of original and edgy clothes for kids

ROOK No. 17 ~ Favorite Craft Sources

BIT OF WHIMSEY DOLLS -- http://www.bitofwhimsydolls.com/ This talented mom has designed her own line of patterns for the most adorable plush managerie ~ owls, dogs, elephants, sheep, even squid and much more. Plus, darling dollies that any little girl or boy would cherish. Her patterns are easy to follow and excellently priced.

DHARMA TRADING -- http://www.dharmatrading.com/ -- supplies and materials for creating custom clothing and textiles. They sell fabrics, dyes, and a wide selection of clothing blanks. Learn new techniques in their "how-to" section.

JENNYLOVESBENNY -- http://www.jennylovesbenny.com/patterns.html -- If you enjoy sewing hand-made plush, you should not miss Jenny's original patterns and kits for mohair bears, bunnies and more.

GERMAN CORNER -- http://www.germanplaza.com/productcart/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=278 -- German Glass glitter, dresdens and trims

THE FEATHERED EGG -- http://www.thefeatheredegg.com/blowneggshells.html -- all types of blown eggs from tiny little quail eggs to funky green emu eggs

PLANET EARTH SOAP MOLD SUPERSTORE -- http://www.goplanetearth.com/index.html -- a fantastic selection of soap molds and soap making supplies

D. BLUMCHEN AND CO. -- http://www.blumchen.com/ -- Exquisite German crafting supplies: glass glitter, dresdens, trims, vintage and reproduction scrap sheets for decoupage, unique advent calenders, vintage florals, tinsel, batting & watte, crepe paper, papier-mache boxes, and bonbonnieres. They also feature occassional project tutorials for charming holiday items.

BRAMBLE BERRY -- http://www.brambleberry.com/ -- the best online source for soap bases, fragrances, essential oils, and molds.

more to come...check back again soon