Berry Coconut Cake

Recently I met up with a girlfriend of mine who has decided that she will be a stay at home mum when her baby arrives. For me though, the decision isn't clear.

I'm really lucky that I am able to take a full year off- a combination of paid and unpaid leave with some government incentives. It does not come without sacrifice as it would potentially mean slowing down my career progression as my peers continue to chug on with gaining more experience and going for trainings. It also does not mean I do not enjoy this time off. The ability to concentrate on my child and family is precious and priceless.

Asher is now approaching 8 months. Sooner or later, I will have to make a decision. To return to work or not? To change pathways? To stay at home? All these weigh up in my mind. Personally, I enjoyed my work before Asher and certainly missed being able to operate in that capacity (plus the adult conversations).

Then it's the question on how do I juggle with work and family. Do women really have the balance? Or will I get to the stage where I really do MISS work and have a break away from Asher? How about the guilt most women face while not spending time with their child.

My husband- the ever supportive partner recommends me taking more time off so that Asher will be older when he attends day care. He likes having me home. It makes life simpler and he thinks we are happier. I like being home too. Although I know that I don't hate work that much either.

And so what do I do when I ponder? I bake of course.

This is another of Teresa Cutter's recipe- I loved it! It's moist and coconuty. She made it in two layers and coated it with frosting. I made mine in a single layer and made an avocado banana cacao frosting. It is a lot of eggs but hey, they are good for you. The frosting? I can't believe I have not posted this before- it's AWESOME and it can be a pudding as well. That cake with a mug of coffee or tea is just divine for afternoon tea.

1 tablespoon of honey.

Preheat Oven to 180C. Line cake tin with baking paper.

Whisk eggs, honey and vanilla in cake mixer till it foams and becomes light. Fold in dry ingredients to wet. Spoon into cake tin and bake it for 45 minutes. Cool and frost with your favourite frosting.

Banana Avocado Cacao Frosting

1 banana

1 avocado

1/3 cup of cacao powder

1 tsp of honey

Blitz everything up!! Eat it as it is or use it as a frosting.