Mike's Birthday

We all know Mike was a teenager in the 90's, so what better way to celebrate his birthday than to throw a 90's party? I know, it may seem a little premature, but after throwing around some memories, we decided it was time.

With inspiration from New Dress a Day, I set out to find my outfit. With the help of Anthony, I found this beaut. I used the extra length to make a stylish scrunchie.

BEFORE: Shoulder pads and all. I was not excited. 

AFTER: Look at me, I'm Stephanie Tanner!

With my outfit taken care of, I had to create a special cake for Mike! Hmm what does Mike like.. Optics/Physics, soccer, avocados... Out of desperation, I consulted facebook. I got "Club Soccer, Optical engineering". Thanks, Mike.


What does this boy like?? I thought back to when I met Mike, almost a year ago. I remember he was very enthusiastic about beer, specifically the local Genesee company. Ok, this is something I can work with. I googled "beer cake" and saw some really inspiring cakes. I brainstormed how I was going to make a 3D beer cake for about a month before I found a process another blogger had used. Before I continue, I have to explain a game.


The game is called Bros Icing Bros. The boys began participating this summer. Here's how it works: "Bros" strategically trick their friends (male only) into finding a Smirnoff Ice. When they are successful, the friend has to get on one knee and chug it (regardless of the time of day). Now, the interesting part is that an Icing can be blocked if the targeted bro is carrying an Ice. In that case, he reveals the Ice upon finding the planted one, and the original icer is forced to chug instead. Still confused? Check the wiki here. 


It's clearly stated that girls are never allowed to play in the rules. When Anthony presented the idea that I hide an Ice in Mike's birthday cake, I was hesitant. But this seemed like too good an opportunity to pass up. I figured Mike would appreciate the effort, if nothing else.

This took a LOT of thought and consideration, but I came up with a concept in my head and went for it. Here is how I broke it down (or should I say built it up):

Layer one: successful!

I decided to make chocolate and yellow cake (mostly due to the fact that I wanted to satisfy all tastes) and then ordered the layers based on which cakes were cooled at the time.

This took two [boxes] of cake mix split into four 9-inch round pans cut in half. It was the perfect amount for the dimensions and ratios I wanted. This was lucky since I did not make plans or measure anything.

Layer of homemade icing and chocolate chips for the dark layer on the label. [Recipe]

My make-shift icing bag

No misspellings or mistakes! Phew!

Just like the original.

Happy Birthday, Mike! (I loved his outfit!)

Two videos of Mike cutting the cake:
Part One- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9C_2VJIzuA
Part Two- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANKJ2x_Q9Z8