While I was talking to a friend the other day I mentioned that I had been involved recently in a scouting activity with Caleb. Understandably, he asked whether we had been learning how to build a fire, pitch a tent, or tie some knots. To his surprise I described our day of baking in preparation for the Pack 22 Cake Bake contest.
As we had already been through a recent Pack 22 Pinewood Derby and witnessed first hand the “parental support,” I fully expected similar creations from the overzealous parents. Caleb and I witnessed professional cake decorators and bakers, or should I say Cub Scouts, compete for small colored ribbons of recognition, when all that really mattered was when they could cut the masterpiece and finally have dessert.
Caleb and I worked together and contrived a “Cub Scout Hat” cake that actually looked somewhat like a real hat. Not only did we have a great time, but also managed to turn some heads at the “competition.” Caleb’s second place ribbon in Cub Scout spirit made the whole night worth it for both of us.
[mygal=cub_hat_cake]
The experience brought back memories of a Cub Scout cake bake with my dad. Believe it or not, I actually remember baking and icing a beehive cake (or maybe I just watched, I can’t remember exactly). I don’t remember what color ribbon I took home for the cake (judging by the picture I can’t imagine not taking the blue ribbon), but I do remember doing it with my dad – and that is what really counts.
[mygal=beehive_cake]
Now as I look back on the whole experience I am glad for the time with my dad and the time I spent with Caleb- just in the same way we did for the Pinewood Derby. I only wonder what it means when your son places second in a cake bake and tenth in a Pinewood Derby? But then again, I was a TA in junior high for Home Ec and not woodshop. Dad, did you ever TA for Home Ec?
I enjoyed the message and I cannot remember what ribbons you (Chris) won either, but I also remember the fun we had with both the pinewood derby and the cake baking. That should be a lesson to all of us that we remember the fun but not the ribbons. I did not TA for home ec but I do remember we worked out a trade where we took Home Ec for a couple of weeks while the girls took woodshop and I learned alot. It was fun. I am proud of both Chris and Caleb. The cake looks great.
Love Dad (Grandpa)
Hi guys!
Well, as a now seasoned Cub Scout den leader I can honestly say that that is one great cake decorating job! Congratulations Caleb! We’re just getting ready for our Pinewood Derby and Will is very excited. We decided to do a separate derby for just the dads too so that should be fun! Isn’t Cubs great??? Take care….and thanks for the updates from the other side of the country! Rory