When you’re feeling all at sea, don’t ever underestimate the power of the simple things, darling. Those are the things that can get us through the darkest days. Watch nature do her thing, listen to your favourite songs, talk to a kind friend, bake a delicious cake. These are the little things that will lift your spirits.
I close my eyes and I feel her so close to me. Maybe I could bake a cake today? I probably haven’t baked a cake since I was here as a teenager.
But yes, that’s exactly what I’ll do.
Granny Molly used to love baking in this kitchen when we’d come to stay. She never lived here full-time, but the summer holidays she gave us in this cottage were legendary, from seaside walks to lighthouse visits and so much more.
And one of my favourite pastimes to do with her right here in this little kitchen was to bake chocolate cake. Is there anything more comforting than a slice of velvety chocolate cake with a thick gooey centre and layers of icing on top? I may not be a master chef in the kitchen, but I do remember how to bake Granny Molly’s cake.
There is very little stuff left in the cottage to remind me of her. Aside from the practical things that have stood the test of time, there is very little of her personality here any more, so it makes me smile when I see on the top shelf of a cupboard all her baking essentials. I’m so glad Marion and Rusty didn’t get rid of them when they took over this place. Yes, there they are. A mixing bowl, a cake tin, a whisk. It’s all here.
She’s still here.
Now, ingredients …
I pull on my yellow raincoat and my pink hat, then rush out to the corner shop with George alongside to grab some cocoa powder, granulated sugar, icing sugar, lots of chocolate, eggs, flour and butter.
I hurry back, turn up the radio, put on an apron and get to work to the sounds of some of my favourite Christmas carols. I whisk. I mix. I stir. I taste. I close my eyes to savour the richflavour. I feel so much better already, like my heart is slowly filling up in a way it hasn’t done in so long.
The simple things.
Within an hour, I open the oven door and carefully take out the cake tin to see my masterpiece. I’m feeling very proud. It’s spongy, it’s smooth, it’s just right. I taste the icing I’ve prepared. Yum.
I drip melted chocolate icing over the top so that it runs down the sides, then I frost it with icing sugar and top with a sprig of holly.
I take a photo and I can’t resist. I send it to Charlie.
‘Ta daaaa. What do you think, Georgie?’
Yes, he looks quite impressed as he licks his lips with a very pink tongue when I show him the fruits of my labour. I can’t stop smiling.
When you’re feeling all at sea, don’t ever underestimate the power of the simple things.
No truer words were ever spoken.
The doorbell rings and I race to open it, not knowing who to expect, but I’m feeling so high that I barely stop to wonder.
‘Stacy!’
Bless her for remembering and for acting on what was a tipsy conversation last night when we agreed to meet up today.
‘Some afternoon delights for after our walk?’ she says, holding up a basket of cheeses, breads, chutneys and a bottle of red wine. ‘Oh, you look surprised. Did you forget I was to pop by?’
‘Of course not. I’m delighted! Come in. Your timing is impeccable,’ I say, opening the door to let her inside. ‘I’ll put the kettle on. I’ve just made chocolate cake. You can be first to try it.’
For a day that started out maudlin and slow, I’m feeling so much better already.
The power of the simple things.
Granny Molly was right as usual.
Chapter Twenty-Two
Charlie
‘Max! George!’
It’s bloody freezing outside.
