MONSTER CANDY BAR CAKE

Things have really changed in life.  The other day, my 4 year old nephew whom I've vowed never to babysit again, took his grandmother's phone.  As he started punching numbers, he calmly asked for her password to unlock the phone.  Huh?  She just as calmly provided the info he requested, and before I knew it he was typing away!  Another nephew who is 5, asked his mother for her credit card number so he could order something on-line.  Now I'm really scratching head, readers, but perhaps I'm in error or too old fashioned.  I  expect a kid to do homework, read a novel or learn to tie a shoe.  What in the world is going on?????(lol)

If you're looking for something cool and safe for your kiddies to do for Halloween, be sure to check out the Scare-fest on October 29 @ 5:30pm and October 30 @ 5:30pm.  Movies will be provided, along with snacks in the Lillington Library for teens aged 13-18.

Now onto this fun recipe courtesy of Sandra Lee and her cookbook called Every Dish Delivers:

INGREDIENTS
Nonstick Cooking Spray
1 Box Chocolate Cake Mix
1 1/2 Cups Cola
3 Large Eggs
1/2 Cup Vegetable Oil
2 1/2 Cups Various candy bars, chopped and divided for use
1 Can of Chocolate Frosting

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.  Prepare 2 9-inch round pans with cooking spray.  Cut parchment paper circles to fit in the bottom of the pans.  Place the circles in pans and give them a light spray of oil.

2.  In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix cola, eggs and oil.  Beat with a mixer on low speed until combined, then continue beating on medium speed for 2 minutes, occasionally scraping the bowl with a spatula.  Fold in 1 1.2 cups chopped candy.

3.  Divide the batter between the 2 cake pans.  Place in preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.  Cool in pans for 10 minutes.  Invert cakes onto cooling racks cooling completely.

4.  To finish the cake, remove the parchment circles and place one layer on a cake plate or stand.  Spread layer of frosting then sprinkle with 1/2 cup candy.  Place second layer on top and finish frosting the cake.  Decorate the cake by sprinkling remaining candy on top and sides of the cake. You're ready to impress friends and family!

It's important that I share social issues regarding women, but when it comes to my own personal health, I tend to fall short. Last month I discovered a fairly large lump on my breast that I ignored, thinking it would go away, then promptly forgetting about it because I'm awful busy.  If you remember, October is the month we recognize Breast Cancer, so I had it checked out, just as I encourage you to do.  I wasn't surprised by the results, but I am optimistic, because that's just what one has to do in order to stay sane. Whenever possible, we have to live life to the fullest.  This is true if you're homeless, have no job, no money and or no family support.  We must remember that we are here for a reason, even when not knowing what that reason may be. I say this to remind you of the importance of doing self exams and having mammograms done.

If you don't have the money, take some time to research and get it done for FREE, or borrow the money.  We've come a long way, but that doesn't mean we can ignore the warning signs our body tells us.