Gotta Love That Zucchini !

         Have you ever wondered what your life would be like without friends?  My friends are a mainstay and a strength, and there are days when their kindness and support mean everything to me.  I just love them. 
         As I've been thinking about ways to relax, and the ones I like most, I couldn't help but think of my friend, Jessica.  A couple weeks ago Jess brought over some chocolate zucchini cake.  Never had it?  Neither had I, but it only took one bite to realize this would be a favorite.  In fact, I can think of nothing nicer on a cool September morning than a square of chocolate zucchini cake (yes, folks, I'm with Bill Cosby--chocolate cake for breakfast!), and a cup of warm herbal tea; oh, so relaxing and delicious.  You'll especially appreciate it if you're a mom with children still at home.  Imagine, you've gone through all the craziness of corralling the kids and herding them out the door to school.  The door clicks shut (or BANGS!) and the house is suddenly quiet.  Now is your moment.  Cut yourself a piece of cake, pour a cup of tea and let the peace sink in.     
         It's true, I'm retired and my children graduated from school long ago, so I don't have to wait for the door to slam.  But I remember those days so clearly, and I figured I shouldn't keep something this good to myself.  So, here is my relaxation gift to you--Jessica's recipe.  I hope you'll treat yourself to its moist texture and chocolaty delicious taste.  If it's been a really tough morning go ahead and have two pieces.
You have my permission!
        CHOCOLATE ZUCCHINI CAKE    

First Cream Together:

1/2 Cup Margarine, I've used real butter and it tastes just as yummy.

1/2 Cup Vegetable oil

1 3/4 Cups White Sugar

Add: 

2 Eggs

1T Vanilla

1/2 Cup Milk

Then Mix in:

2 1/2 Cups Flour

4 T Cocoa, I tend to add more 

1/2 t Baking Powder

1t Baking Soda 

1/2 t Cinnamon

1/2 t Cloves

Once you've added and mixed in all the above ingredients stir in 2 Cups finely grated zucchini.  Keep stirring until all zucchini is mixed in. Pour into a 9X12 greased and floured pan. Sprinkle with 1/4 Cup of chocolate chips. Bake at 350 for 35-40 mins. Poke with a knife and if it comes out clean it's done.  Let cool for about 15 mins then dust generously with Powdered Sugar. ENJOY!!!

***A cute apron and fun music are key while making this cake because it makes a huge mess and messes are more fun to make when you're singing! *** 

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Thanks, Jessica.  This is a hit!  I hope all my blog readers will try it.

TODAY'S AWESOME BLESSING:        JESSICA.   I'M  SO HAPPY  THAT  HER  MOM  TAUGHT  HER  TO  SHARE!