1. Bake the chocolate cake according to the package instructions. Once baked, let it cool completely before cutting it into cubes.
2. While the cake cools, prepare the whipped cream. In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip.
3. In a large trifle dish or clear bowl, start layering. Begin with a layer of chocolate cake cubes at the bottom.
4. Spread a layer of cherry pie filling over the cake cubes. Ensure the cherries are evenly distributed for that perfect bite.
5. Next, spoon a generous layer of whipped cream over the cherries, smoothing it out with a spatula.
6. Repeat the layers: cake, cherry filling, whipped cream, until you reach the top of your dish.
7. For the final touch, sprinkle dark chocolate shavings on top and place maraschino cherries for garnish.
8. Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully together.

Remember, this is your trifle. Don’t stress if the layers aren’t perfect. It’s about the love and effort you pour into it, much like those stories my dad would weave as we cooked together.