The Giddiness Snow Brings (Recipe: Oatmeal Cake)

I've noticed a lot of talk about snow.  Whether it be on the television, or my cousin posting first snow pics from Colorado on Face Book, or me checking in on the weather in Idaho, I've noticed the wintry weather trying to sneak in.  It is no secret that I miss snow and the giddy feeling one gets with its arrival.

I am younger each year at the first snow.
When I see it, suddenly, in the air, all little and white and moving; then I am
in love again and very young and I believe everything. 

-Anne Sexton

Oatmeal Cake
This recipe is from my college room mate, Jessica.  She had rummaged through her mom's recipe box and had quite a collection.  Scented with cinnamon and studded with pecans, this cake is a delicious autumn treat! 

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups hot water
• 1 cup quick cooking oats
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and pan spray a 9 x 13 cake pan.
2. Sift flour, baking soda, cinnamon & salt together
3. In a small bowl, pour the hot water over the quick cooking oats, set aside.  Meanwhile, cream shortening, sugar, and brown sugar in the bowl of a mixer.  Add the sifted dry ingredients to the sugar mixture.  Mix in the oats and vanilla and mix until combined.
4. Bake for 30 minutes.

TOPPING

• 1 stick of butter
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 cup coconut
• 1 cup pecans

1. Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute
2. Spread topping over hot cake and place under a broiler for 1 minute or until brown.