Tina took me to the shop fairly early so that I could get the missing ingredient and make a start on the cakes. So not too much to report today, three cakes made and still cooling as I write, even though I got them out before 2 pm. The preparation was about an hour and a half, it is surprising how long they take, but they are looking, and smelling good.

In the tins and then turned out on the rack.

The Christmas cakes cook great in this oven that at times drives me to despair, I think it is because the gas is set at the lowest so not too much variation! I got a cup cake book in The Works a couple of weeks back, only £1 and really good, but I think it is old as it actually has imperial weights in which suits me down to the ground. So, made some basic fairy cakes and tried the cream cheese frosting. They are okay, best not get used to things turning out right as I will surely be heading for a fall!

Charlie is up with me again, and actually came and sat on my lap for ten minutes. He is back on the mat in the shower room now. More cakes tomorrow but may try and get out a bit too.