Happy 2nd Birthday, Holly!

Holly and her ducks...

Two years ago today, my cousins, Karl and Claudine, gave birth to the adorable Holly.  Five weeks early, she was a little bit of a surprise, but she was strong and alert since day one.  She has grown into a curious and lovable toddler.  I enjoy my Holly-days and am hoping to have more of them this summer.  Even though I'm going to have to miss her birthday party, I wanted to make sure I made her cupcakes for the party tomorrow.  Holly loves her ducks; therefore, it is the theme of the party. 

I made basic yellow cake and fudge chocolate cake recipes, and Martha Stewart's fluffy vanilla icing. 

I used blue spray food coloring to lightly tint the icing then topped the icing with white sugar pearls to look like water and bubbles.  Then I made chocolate ducks out of a mold I found at a local candy and bake shop. 

I had some left over chocolate batter, so I decided to make a small cake for Holly to blow out her 2 candles and devour.  I used a 6 inch square cake pan then carved a duck shape out of it.  It sort of looks more like a chick, but it'll have to do.  I hope she likes it!