[Liz]

Im typing as fast as I can----so you will look like an expert baker when you serve up a perfect Buche de Noel.

(1) you cant buy meringue mushrooms--you have to make them.

use an Italian meringue recipe---make rounds and oblongs---glue together w/ icing. Sprinke w/ cocoa powder.

(2) use toy woodland creatures and ghnomes--just tell guests they are not edible.

(3) s/market birthday cake decor has cute items you can use to decorate.....frosting letters spelling out NOEL can hide flaws.

[miss marmelstein]

Thanks again, Liz. Next time I plan to use a good thick homemade icing - the commercial brand is really sweet.