Happy Trails

About two months back, a friend of ours moved to Calgary for a new job. Because he had been an integral part of our church family for several years, our fellowship group worked to give him a proper send off. I, along with my friends Amy and Emily, decided to use this as an excuse for a girl's baking night. :)

With almost 30 people expected to show up for the dinner, we had our hands full. Amy had read on the internet that we could use club soda instead of milk and eggs in the cake mix. I was skeptical but she had tried it out before hand and apparently it works. This was perfect because we knew a few guests were lactose intolerant.  Our main issue was trying to figure out what we were going to make: cupcakes or cake.

The batter was going to be the same either way: cake mix :)

The cupcakes came first.

Fresh out of the oven!

The icing was the best part. I think I did a pretty good job for a novice icer if I do say so myself. ;)

Just look at that professional swirl!

Our friend has worn plaid several times - we looked hard for those cupcake liners! ;)

We thought that using a Pringle and a JubeJube as a cowboy hat was genius - thank you, Pinterest!

We also ended up making a cake. The main reason was that we did not have enough cupcake caddies to carry 30 cupcakes. It turned out for the best though because our 'Happy Trails' sticks all remained together.

Before (baking)

After (check out that golden brown tan)

All iced - you can't even see the cracks! The wonders of make up :)

Those bronze sprinkles are supposed to be a road. Its even got perspective!

We even used cheerful craft tape for the backs of the letters - so DIY.

3 hours later - Voila!

So Brian, we wish you all the best in Calgary! Happy Trails!