I was just as surprised as everyone else at how the cake came out, and I couldn't wait to share it!
No, it's not perfect. I'm a rank amateur and would never make such a claim.
Yes, that name is Photoshopped. And yes, I realize that won't really protect my son's identity on the interwebz. Hush up and let me enjoy my little delusion.
Yes, I know the top is off center. Someday I'll splurge on a proper cake lifter - for now all I've got is a grill spat and I'm just happy I didn't drop it on the floor, seeing as how this was my first attempt at two tiers.
Yes, I know you can see the top edge of the cake through the frosting. Sue me, it was midnight.
Yes, I know that the fondant bits are uneven and have rough edges. It was my first try working with fondant outside of the class I took 3 years ago.
The thing is, I'm not sharing this pirate birthday cake because I think it's a masterpiece. I'm sharing it because it made me and my son very, very happy. And to show that even an utterly unskilled working mom who took a cake decorating night class at the community college a few years back can still turn out surprisingly delightful creations. If my time in triathlon has taught me anything, it's that my calling is to be the "if she can do it, I can do it" person in life. And I'm ok with that.
So take a look, maybe have a laugh at my expense, and maybe be inspired to skip calling the bakery next time your kid needs a birthday cake.