Chocolate Rasberry Torte

Today, 19 years ago, the most beautiful girl entered my life and I took on the new official name of "MOM".  I have loved every year, day, hour, and minute spent with this amazing gift from God.  Sadie has grown into such an independent young lady and our relationship shift to a "friend" level has been a wonderful journey this past year as she is now a sophmore in college.  So of course what better excuse to bake than a birthday!  This recipe came again from the fantastic magazine Living Without, August/September 2011 issue.  The cake is gluten and dairy-free.  It is super sweet though and I did not replace with stevia - I used organic cane sugar.  It is a cake where a TALL glass of milk is required - rice milk for those of you who are dairy free.  It was great enjoying cake and coffee as I caught up on her college life.  My heart is breaking as I realize this will be her last birthday, for now at least, that I will spend with her.  I am thrilled for my new adventure awaiting me as we prepare to move, but the thought of being 14 hours away and no more Sunday lunches creates a little hole in my heart that hurts always.  Special days like this will be so difficult this first year apart, but I will just cherish the times we are together even more. 

As Christmas quickly approaches, I am not sure what time I will have to get to much more baking in.  I would love to get some cookie dough made and in the freezer to bake on the winter break, but time seems to be fighting me.  As our house is quickly transforming into the "under remodeling" mode, it seems like there is to much other things to get done and no time for baking.  My blog may switch to an "Adventures in Moving" mode for a few months, but I hope to get some baking time in.  I wish you a very Merry Christmas and Safe & Happy New Year.
To my precious Sadie, I love you and pray many happy more years for you as you continue to experience life.  My number one prayer for you - is to continue to keep God #1 in your life above all else.  You fill my cup daily with happiness!  Love Love Love you!!!!!
Happy Baking!