I started this blog a little bit ago, but now while in this COVID-19 quarantine I know I am blessed that myself and my Club (Paragon Optimist) were able to be a part of and have a memory of good times. A time when we were together, a time when schools were in session, a time when a night out was safe. This memory has also inspired me, or maybe should I say challenged me. Please read on and I hope you too are inspired and join me in this challenge and will share your good times.

Dads, uncles, brothers, friends, were the “HE” male counterparts during Fairfield Central’s annual He & Me Cake Decorating Contest. On January 24, 2020 there were 64 cake entries and every cake was unique!

This contest has been held at Fairfield Central Elementary School for over 15 years. It was begun by a PTC mom, who wanted to find something where the dads/male figures in a child’s life could participate. Each team brings their baked cake, decorating supplies, creativity and then enjoys a delightful night of hands on fun! Paragon Optimist Club has been assisting with this function since 2008 and we have loved every moment.

On event night promptly at 7PM the contest starts, meaning the actual physical decorating begins. Physical because some students have been planning out their point of attack since the end of the previous year’s contest. Besides icing and a cake, contenders bring candies, pictures, knives for carving, trucks, Barbie dolls, small banners, everything and anything that their minds concocted in order to make their cakes their own extraordinary masterpiece.

Within a half an hour the time to decorate is complete and the cakes are ready to be judged. During that time while the judges review all the cakes is when the Paragon lends a hand. Our important job is to distract the students while the judging is happening. The students begin by enjoying treats and drinks the Paragon Optimist Club supplied while they sit and rest and wonder what they could have done differently, or how amazed they are with how their cakes turned out. After the food is cleaned up, the Paragon has setup an obstacle course, parachute ball tossing, pin the tail on the donkey, basketball shooting contests, scooter races, coloring and bingo for everyone to play.

Then suddenly, it is time to return to the cafeteria for the announcements where more magic happens. Ribbons are awarded in as many categories as needed to cover all of the cakes. The pride and joy of the evening is inspirational. I think the “He’s” in the room are just as excited as the students. Together they created this edible artwork all on their own. Prizes, snacks, games, a whole lot of time together, and now a cake to share, what’s not to love about this night!

Personally, I cannot wait until next year to see what the new creations will be. And as I said this blog inspired me to a challenge. This challenge I hope will inspire memories of good times and leads to a delightful night(s) and unique treats.

Challenge: Quarantine & Me Baking Contest

Rules:

Anyone can play
Take as much time as you need
Take a few photos of you and yours creating a baked treat unique to you
Every baked treat needs your personal touch – we know not everyone is a baker, so have no fear, support local, but give it some of your personal flare!
And if you dare, share one happy moment you experienced during this challenge
#TogetherAtHome #Covid19Challenge #Baking #SupportLocal

The first few entries….please add your entry to the comments!