my three sons designs

Game Changer

2012-01-11T21:19:00.000-08:00

"Hope begins in the dark, the stubborn hope that if you just show up and try to do the right thing, the dawn will come. You wait and watch and work: you don't give up."

Anne Lamott

New in the Shop | Kitchen Towels + Free Shipping!

2012-01-07T07:34:00.000-08:00

Check out these new screen-printed cotton kitchen towels! Fun designs, quality towels, you can't go wrong. Buy them for yourself or give as gifts.

Free shipping on all items in the shop this month!

Lincoln's 9th

2012-01-05T06:58:00.000-08:00

There's something so special about your first born. It feels like it takes forever for them to finally arrive and when they do, there are just no words to describe that feeling. I remember those first few weeks so well. It didn't matter how few hours of sleep we were getting, or how many times he wanted to eat, or how much he cried...we were just so in love. Can't believe it's been 9 years since that day. Love you even more than we did the day you were born.

Top 9 reasons Lincoln is so awesome...

9. He's doesn't do anything without making a case for both sides, weighing the pro's and con's, and discussing the ramifications of all possible decisions.

8. There's not an animal he can't make friends with. He professes his two possible vocations are veterinarian or lawyer.

7. He proclaims that his only two talents are burping the alphabet and making armpit farts.

6. He plays legos and bay blades with Harrison and is teaching him a strong sense of competition by never letting him win.

5. He's a great friend & loves to make the kids in his class laugh. (sorry, Mrs. Rose-Weber)

4. He's got tons of compassion for Ben. He's a one man justice system.

3. He prays every night and reminds us when we forget.

2. Every episode America's funniest home videos makes him laugh until he has to pee. He has the greatest laugh ever.

1. You just never know what he's going to think of next, and we wouldn't have it any other way. Love you Linc!

New Year's Day | Tamale Making Party

2012-01-03T18:19:00.000-08:00

Besides watching football, New Year's Day is always a bit of a slow end to the holiday season. This year we happily attended Andi & Beston's 2nd Annual tamale making party. (after a bit of football watching, of course...the end of fantasy football, horray!)

Everyone brings a favorite tamale filling or drink (homemade horchata, yum), and they provided the masa and banana leaves. We marked the tamales with different color paper so you knew what you were about to bite into. Add beans and salad on the side, and it's the perfect activity + meal for a big crowd. Fun to get to know people as you talk and wrap tamales together.

Feliz Año Nuevo! Here's to a tamale making tradition...

Chocolate + Banana Empanadas

2012-01-02T08:50:00.000-08:00

We celebrated New Year's Eve with one of my favorite combos, good friends and mexican food. Enchiladas, spanish rice, guacamole, mexican salad and my personal favorite, Empanadas for dessert. You can't go wrong with any combination of bananas and chocolate, right? They were so good I actually made them again on New Year's day.

Chocolate + Banana Empanadas

Ingredients

(makes 16 empanadas. Not enough in my opinion. Double it. One roll of phyllo dough, cut in half lengthwise, makes about 32 empanadas.)

8 sheets phyllo dough cut in half lengthwise

melted butter for brushing

2 tsp. sugar

1 tbs lemon juice

2 ripe bananas

6 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips

confectioners sugar for dusting

cinnamon for dusting

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Peel and finely dice the bananas and put in bowl. Add the sugar and lemon juice and stir well. Stir in the chocolate.

Working one at a time, lay out the rectangular sheets of phyllo in front of you and brush with butter.

Place approx. 2 tsp of filling in one corner of the dough. Fold over into a triangular shape to enlose the filling. Continue to fold the dough in a triangular shape until the phyllo dough is completely wrapped around the filling. Place on sprayed or non-stick cookie sheet. Repeat with remaining sheets of phyllo dough.

Brush tops of triangles lightly with butter. Dust the triangles with confectioners' sugar and cinnamon.

Bake in oven for 13-15 minutes or until pastries are lightly golden. Watch closely the first time to be sure they don't over cook. Remove from oven and serve warm.

New Year's Eve

2011-12-31T13:00:00.000-08:00

Hope tonight is a wonderful celebration of the past and a preview of the year to come. I've got a good feeling about 2012...

Christmas Update + Theo

2011-12-31T09:08:00.000-08:00

Meet the newest member of the Byard household, Theo.
(Theodore Roosevelt Byard, but you can call him Theo. You know we have a thing about presidents around here.)

Favorites things...snuggling on the couch, peeing in the yard (yippee!), chewing on his pug stuffed animal, sleeping in his bed, chasing the kids at the park.

Seriously, we somehow got the easiest puppy ever born. He's 11 weeks and 90% housebroken, sleeps in his kennel all night without a peep, and chews on his toys. (nerf gun bullets are the exception to that rule) Someone must have known a bad puppy wouldn't have made it very long in our house!

Getting a puppy was the obvious highlight to Christmas for us, but it's also been a lovely, low-key week around here. Hanging out with friends, playing lots of words with friends, eating left-overs, staying in pajamas till almost lunch time and watching movies together at night. I like a little time with no agendas or to-do lists.

All comments about our adorable puppy are welcome. I think I'm going to end up being one of "those" dog people I always made fun of :)

December Happenings

2011-12-21T08:12:00.000-08:00

Back from my blogging hiatus. It's been a busy December! So busy I've even forgotten to take pictures. So unlike me.

I'm back in the blogging mood this week with a ton of projects lined up in my head, baking to do, and kids to keep busy...see you soon :)

Until then, here are a few of my favorites from these past few weeks...

John and I at the Young Life Yuletide Affair. My dance moves were a little 1993.

Riding to the YL Staff Party with Jordan & AJ. Good times.

San Diego Bay boat parade. Mom, can we go home yet?

Seeing old friends this weekend. Our YL kids that now have 8 of their own kids....

Bear's Pirate Party

2011-12-06T08:08:00.000-08:00

We've been talking about Bear's birthday party around our house every day for the last six months. Every day Bear asked if his party was that day, and the daily follow up question was if we could move his birthday just a little bit sooner...

Finally the big day arrived. It was pirate gear as far as the eye could see. I don't know what moms did before the internet, but I was happy to find free templates for pirate hats, treasure maps, skull stencils, and pirate masks. Found some adorable pirate cupcake decorations and added a handmade flag banner.

Bear's favorite part was bouncing on the birthday cake bouncy house with his pals. I loved seeing Lincoln be the treasure hunt captain and introduce his snake, Dr. Doolittle style. Larry was a big hit with the preschool set.

Bear, you're the cutest pirate around. Looking forward to talking about your 5-year-old party all. year. long.

Bear-isms

2011-12-06T07:08:00.000-08:00

"Mom, do me a salad and go get me a drink." (i.e. Do me a solid. Who says that?)

Me: "Bear, Mom needs some alone time right now."
Bear: "Mom, you can have your alone time after I go to bed."

He's 4 going on 15.

SoNo Fest Report

2011-12-05T10:43:00.000-08:00

photo credit | arlene ibarra

All I can say is that McKinley parents know how to throw an awesome party.

Over 6000 people came out to our SoNo Park Holiday Fest to eat chili, drink beer, shop, listen to music and play. It was an incredible day!

Thanks to everyone who came out to help us raise money for our McKinley Elementary kids. We appreciate the help :) Until next year!

Mouse & Moe

2011-12-02T11:01:00.000-08:00

You're going to love the unique recycled plastic jewelry by Emily of Mouse & Moe. They are all truly one-of-a-kind pieces. Emily's one of those people who can make a masterpiece out of anything you throw her way. She also spends time each year in Uganda teaching women how to make jewelry. She's awesome! Stop by her booth for a chat...

1. What prompted you to start your business?

I've always been the artsy crafty sort, and had made jewelry and purses for friends and myself for years. A few years back, I was unemployed for about six months, and between job searches, I started taking my jewelry making hobby a little bit more seriously!

2. Where do you find inspiration for your work?

I love working with alternative and recycled materials. I try to stay away from craft supply stores and find my materials elsewhere, so I guess you could say that the materials are what inspire me. I've been working a lot with recycled plastic, and have enjoyed the challenge of making it look beautiful. I also love working with broken costume jewelry and other scrap materials where each piece is unique, and I just allow those materials to turn into something one-of-a-kind.

3. What is one essential for your work space?

Having a work space! I worked at a little desk in my bedroom for years, but always found myself folding laundry or taking a nap instead of getting something done. I finally decided to carve out a little work space for myself in the living room, behind a room divider wall, and it's been so good to have a place that is strictly for creating.

4. What is the best part about owning your own business?

My dream is to work as a designer alongside companies that are using ethical business practices to help women around the world combat poverty and achieve their own dreams. I've been incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to design jewelry for the women of Ember Arts (whose work will be represented at the SoNo Fest). They are a group of Acholi women in Uganda who make recycled paper jewelry. Projects like this require a bit of traveling, though, and having my own business allows me to work just part time with a very flexible and generous employer (Sophia at the Make Good!) so that I'm able to leave the country for months at a time and work in Uganda.

Tecui

2011-11-29T14:26:00.000-08:00

The SoNo Park Holiday Fest is just a few days away! Luis from Tecui will be joining us again with his unique designs. Love them!

1. What prompted you to start your business?
Well, as a graphic designer I was always drawing and doodling, so I decided to take those drawings a little bit more serious. I decided to start my own brand with my nickname ''Técui''. Here I can design and create my own artwork and products.

2. Where do you find inspiration for your work?
Well, it all started by drawing rocks and landscapes from Baja California. Then they evolved to more graphics,simple lines and forms. Then I took that to design compositions and characters.

4. What is the best part about owning your own business?

The liberty to design what I want...and the complements I get from people are also pretty cool.

Colleen Townend Jewelry

2011-11-28T13:23:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite creative people will be joining us again at this year's SoNo Fest, Colleen Townend. Colleen's work is extremely personal and artistic. When I compliment women in the neighborhood on their jewelry they often tell me it's one of Colleen's pieces. Stop by her booth this year and I promise you won't leave without buying something!

1. What prompted you to start your business?
I have been making jewelry from the loads of treasures I would find at rummage sales and junk shops since I can remember. I would make pieces and wear them or gift friends and family but never thought of selling my work. About 10 years ago, I was encouraged by friends to have a show in my home and see what happens. I was petrified but did it and it was such a success I had an "aha" moment. Since then, I have become immersed in the local artist community in San Diego and have done more shows than I can count.

2. Where do you find inspiration for your work?
My work space is filled with things I love, jars of antique baubles, wall hooks dripping with strands of vintage rhinestones and beads, photos of loved ones and kids artwork, it's like a shrine for inspiration.Sometimes I'm inspired by the wardrobe in a movie or the architecture of a building, music, family, friends and
definitely nature. More than anything,scouring through dusty forgotten about treasures in antique stores and junk shops, estate sales and flea markets.I tend to develop an attachment to the vintage pieces and as I'm working with them I start to narrate a story in my head about who the piece may have belonged to and the history of the piece comes alive for me.

3. What is one essential for your work space?
It's hard to narrow it down to one thing, how about 3? Good lighting and tools are a must and my guilty pleasure is the tiny t.v. in the corner of my desk that keeps me company when I'm cranking out pieces getting ready for a show.

4. What is the best part about owning your own business?
Working from home allows me to stay involved with family while having the creative outlet I need to keep me sane. I get to do what I'm passionate about and connect with other like minded creatives regularly, I'm so thankful for that.

Giveaway Monday | 1000th Post Edition!

2011-11-28T06:48:00.000-08:00

This is officially my 1000th post! Can't believe I've been writing on this blog that long, but time does go by fast. In fact, Harrison was just six months old when I started writing, and he turns 4 tomorrow :)

In celebration of the occasion, it's time for another giveaway. This peace-on-earth wreath will arrive just in time to put up for Christmas.

Leave a comment. Any comment. And go ahead and enter yourself twice if you get a friend to join in.

Giveaway ends Wednesday night. Peace :)

Update | Congratulations Rachael (Eventful Cookies)!

Big, Fat Turkey Day

2011-11-24T08:47:00.000-08:00

photo credit | Jessica Porter

Me: "Harrison, Happy Thanksgiving!"

Harrison: "Happy big, fat turkey day Mom!"

I'm thankful for many things this Thanksgiving, but mostly the big batch of crazy boys pictured above. (Christmas picture out-take!)

+ My bald-by-choice, triathlete, son wrestling, facebook addicted, still-brings-me-flowers husband John

+ My Harry Potter reading, lego building, knows-a-little-about-everything, shower-loathing son Lincoln

+ My about-to-walk (yippee!), mess making, eat-anything, can-burp-on-command-for-a-laugh son Ben

+ My mama's boy, just-getting-a-serious-tude, friend loving, snack hound, lovable son Bear

Hope you're finding lots of reasons to be thankful today.
Happy big, fat turkey day!

Lizzy B Vintage

2011-11-21T17:26:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited to have Gina of Lizzy B Vintage back at the SoNo Park Fest this year! You'll adore her one-of-a-kind jewelry. I have a typewriter necklace and love wearing it. She was recently featured on Martha Stewart's Dreamers into Doers. Here's a sample of her interview.

When did you start your business and what inspired you to do this? How did you turn your dream into a business plan?

I started my first business of handmade greeting cards and wedding invitations in 2003. I turned to making jewelry from vintage finds in 2005. We were avid flea-market hunters; I saw a vintage typewriter and said, "What would Martha make from this?" I bought my first antique typewriter and made a bracelet, and everything changed from that day forward.

What do you love most about being your own boss? What are the drawbacks?

My husband will laugh: I like to be in control! I get a vision and I love seeing it through from idea to design to a piece that someone will wear on her neck or wrist. I design for that little black dress or a casual white T-shirt. I love being able to take my kids to school, go to my son's afternoon tennis matches, have lunch with my daughter -- it's perfect. The drawback is being in control of everything -- scouring flea markets, answering emails, setting up shows, packaging orders, and then finding time to create, cook, and clean!

How did you learn and acquire the skills you use to make your business successful? How do you continue to grow and learn?

I have taken a few jewelry classes and while I may not make the intended piece, I always walk away with one new bit of knowledge, whether it is a specific technique or new source of materials. I also ask my mother and brother about cleaning or manipulating vintage materials. While scouring flea markets, older vendors are always willing to share their stories and history about different pieces. The stories are one of the keys to my success. When I can tell my customer where a specific piece came from, it usually helps them to love their choice even more.

What is your favorite product/service that you offer?

My favorite pieces are those I make from other people's vintage heirlooms. I am currently working with a friend's grandfather's WWI dog tags, a sterling bracelet given to her mother in 1915, and two bracelets that her father gave her mother. I'm honored to be trusted with these items and learn their history. When I present the finished necklace or bracelet to my clients, we often both end up in tears.

For the rest of Gina's interview click here.

Odds & Ends

2011-11-19T08:32:00.000-08:00

1. Heatwave by Nars 2. Cake Ball Love 3. Hanging To-Do List

4. Thanksgiving Topper 5. Coconut Custard Jello 6. Swedish blog

7. Tree in Brooklyn 8. Holiday Table Setting 9. Sweet Paul Winter

Happy pre-Thanksgiving weekend!

Post Box Press

2011-11-18T14:28:00.000-08:00

With our SoNo Park Holiday Fest coming up in two weeks, I'm excited to share interviews with some of the talented artists we have this year.

First up is Post Box Press. Katie and her brother Joel create designs that are clean, simple and lovely. My favorites are the Chevron & Holiday cards and I'm pretty stingy about who I send them to. Enjoy reading their fun interview...

What prompted you to start your business?

When my brother Joel got married he asked me to help design his wedding invitation, and when I got married a few years later I asked him to help me design mine. We were both frustrated by the lack of options (in a seemingly flooded wedding market) that met our criteria: clean, simple, custom, AND affordable. After working together we realized we shared a common vision: a partnership committed to good design, simplicity, quality, and making custom design available to the common man :)

Where do you find inspiration for your work?

We're constantly inspired by our clients. The individuality that each person brings to the table is incredible, and that individuality inspires our design.

We typically start out with a concept, and it evolves throughout the design process. I think that's one of the advantages of working as a team: although sometimes it's hard to take criticism, or give up an idea, the process yields a better product than either of us would have come up with on our own. So I guess we're inspired by each other, too.

This year we embarked on a new adventure: readymade cards and templates. Most of our cards are inspired by projects we've done for ourselves over the last three years, so they reflect a lot of our personalities. We're both a little (ok, a lot) obsessed with simplicity, and a lot of our work centers around geometric shapes and typography. I think a lot of our best design comes from our simplest ideas.

What is one essential for your work space?

Joel: Magic Mouse.

Katie: A Le Pen, because I'm a compulsive list maker.

What is the best part about owning your own business?

Where to begin? I love working with my brother. He's an extremely talented designer and just a really good man, and I feel very lucky to have him as a partner. We set our own schedules and take projects we love, and though we sometimes overcommit, we're careful to protect the things that are important to us and not burn ourselves out. I'm able to be at home with my son, Leo, which is an amazing gift.

But maybe the single best part is seeing our designs realized on paper. Getting an invitation or announcement in the mail (we send ourselves a copy of the finished product) and thinking "We made that." And it made people happy.

Words To Live By

2011-11-18T14:00:00.000-08:00

Newest art for my walls. I love the daily attitude check :)

Giveaway Monday | Burlap Chandelier Pillow

2011-11-14T14:02:00.000-08:00

Last week's giveaway was so much fun I'm doing it again. This week's winner will receive this 18 x 18 screen-printed burlap pillow. Are you feeling lucky?

Leave a comment. Any comment. And go ahead and enter yourself twice if you get a friend to join in.

Giveaway ends Wednesday night. Good Luck!

Update | Congratulations Kara!

Design*Sponge at Home

2011-11-14T13:29:00.000-08:00

If you're a fan of interior design, DIY projects, and before and after makeovers, Design*Sponge should be number one on your blog roll.

We had a great time spending the evening with Grace Bonney and her staff at her crafter's workshop and book signing. She was very approachable and humble, which made us like her all the more :) Add in some mini-cupcakes, photo booth & time with friends. The perfect girl's night out.

Her new book, Design*Sponge at Home is amazing! Check out her cute book trailer...

Design Sponge at Home (Official Book Trailer) from The Panic Room Videos on Vimeo.

Local Color Indie Craft Fair

2011-11-12T15:49:00.000-08:00

If you're in town tomorrow stop by the Local Color Indie Craft Fair. It benefits The Museum School and has a TON of great artists. I'll see you there!

Odds & Ends

2011-11-12T10:54:00.000-08:00

Photo via Summer Harms

Needing some amazing bookshelves like these ones.

More Paris Postcards. Love the grey ones.

Thinking about a wall collage of these city posters.

Get a jump on gifts with Gifted's Holiday Gift Guide

Getting in the mood for Thanksgiving...need this pumpkin casserole dish.

Pumpkin Risotto. Yum.

A few more fall recipes totally work trying out.

Hope you're up to some fun things this weekend. Currently we've got a hot chocolate stand going on in front of the house for the dog walkers who are venturing out on this rainy day. Bear and Ben are wrestling in the living room and John is doing a 100 mile bike race. I'm doing the opposite of that by sitting on the couch with my coffee and computer :) Happy weekend!

Lonny | Winter Edition

2011-11-11T10:25:00.000-08:00

This season's Lonny is full of beautiful homes and ideas. I love the simple holiday decor in neutral colors and elegant party table settings. My three favorites this issue...

Susan Becher's Upper West Side Home

Urban Renewal

Seasonal Soiree

Etsy Finds | Fall Colors

2011-11-09T14:10:00.000-08:00

Maybe the White Dog | Wool Wrist Warmers

Linea Carta | Red Fox Linen Napkins

Blake Avenue | Reclaimed Wood Chest

Tanja Sova | Organic Walnut Cutting Board

Bellalulu Vintage | Round Red Birdcage

Design*Sponge Workshop

2011-11-09T09:53:00.000-08:00

I have a date tomorrow night with Design*Sponge & West Elm. Two of my favorites! Brooke and I will be crafting with the experts and then mingling with Design*Sponge fans at their book signing. Can't wait! I'm especially excited to browse through my copy of Design*Sponge at Home.

If you're new to Design*Sponge give these posts a try...

Before & After | Airy Kitchen Remodel
Sneak Peek | Best of Orange
DIY | Salvaged Barnwood Headboard
Before & After | Ground Floor Transformation
DIY | Homemade Cutting Boards

Giveaway Monday | Early Christmas Edition

2011-11-07T19:10:00.000-08:00

It's been too long since my last giveaway and I'm in a sharing mood today. Today I'm offering up to ONE lucky winner the following treats all made by me...

Vintage glass doorknob wine stopper

Wool striped Christmas ornament

Pair of feather earrings

Set of four Christmas coasters.

Leave a comment. Any comment. And go ahead and enter yourself twice if you get a friend to join in.

Giveaway ends Wednesday night. Hope you win!

Congratulations Betsy Hartman!

Trunk Show Report

2011-11-07T09:57:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday! I'm happy to report that a good time was had by all at the Handmade Revolution trunk show yesterday. Despite the rain, people still ventured out to shop and hang out with us. I was so inspired by everything the other girls in the group made, and loved sharing what I've been working on.

In fact, yesterday put me in such a sharing mood, I'll be having a giveaway later today! Come back this afternoon for a chance to win a My Three Sons giveaway you won't want to miss...

Captured | Halloween Edition

2011-11-04T07:51:00.000-07:00

So many choices, so little time

Young Life games come in handy at class parties

New hairstyle

Pirate Booty

Handmade Revolution Trunk Show

2011-11-04T07:33:00.000-07:00

I've been MIA this week for good reason. I've been a busy making lots of things for the Handmade Revolution trunk show this Sunday. Stop by if you're anywhere near San Diego!

Full of handmade treasures crafted by local artists, I promise you won't leave empty handed. Plus there's free food and wine :) See you there!

Halloween Treats

2011-10-27T21:57:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

The Bruery + Good Friends

2011-10-27T21:02:00.000-07:00

Stumbled upon The Bruery last weekend on our Newport trip. Flights of dark beer? Yes. Delicious cheeses I've never heard of? Double yes. (tasting menu here) Even better than dark beer and fancy cheese though are the friends you share them with.

Vintage Book Wreath

2011-10-20T06:14:00.000-07:00

Photo via The Nester

Disclaimer: you don't have to consider yourself a "crafter" to make this wreath.

My good friend Jessica (definitely a crafter, but humble about it) showed me how to make this simple, but gorgeous wreath. It ends up about 3 feet wide, but you can make a smaller version too. Here's the skinny.

Supplies |
Straw wreath, size of your choice
Glue Gun
2 vintage books - 2 different sizes and shades of white/cream
Watercolors
Yep, that's it.

Directions |
1. Use brown or other color watercolor to paint the edges of the pages while holding book tightly together. Let dry.
2. Using the larger book pages, make loose cones. Secure them together at the bottom of the cone with a dab of glue.
3. Glue the first row of cones onto the top of the wreath all the way around. Right over the plastic is fine. The bottom 2-3 inches will be on the straw, the rest will be sticking out from the wreath.
4. Flip the wreath over so the cones are now on the bottom.
5. Repeat the second row on the top of the wreath, using the larger book.
6. Make 2-3 more rows, depending on how full you'd like your wreath, using the smaller book pages. The pages will "stand up" more as you get closer to the middle of the wreath.
7. Receive compliments graciously. The End.

Alphabeasties Art

2011-10-19T21:26:00.000-07:00

I've never met an old window I didn't like. In fact, it's a bit of an addiction I'm afraid. There's a line-up of them in my attic waiting their turn in the limelight.

I've been holding onto my Alphabeasties Alphabet Flash Cards until just the right display came along. Found these great, extra-long windows the other day at Pat's Corner for practically pennies. A perfect fit for Ben and Bear's room.

Intrigue Handmade Boutique

2011-10-18T18:42:00.000-07:00

1. Chandelier Burlap Pillow 2. NY Letter "A"

3. "Boo" T-shirt 4. Vintage doorknob wine stopper

All available at the Boutique this weekend!

If you live anywhere close to Gilbert, AZ you can't pass up this shopping opportunity. Over twenty artists displaying their handmade creations, me included :) You can get all the info you'll need here.

What: Intrique Boutique featuring unique handmade products.

When: Sat. Oct. 21st and Sat. Oct. 29th, from 9-4pm.

Where: 302 N. Cobblestone St. Gilbert, AZ 85234. Don't miss it!

(If you aren't able to make it, you can also find these items in the shop)

Buddy

2011-10-17T17:57:00.000-07:00

Buddy Walk 2011 was a smashing success. We walked, we talked, stopped at the Koi pond, we ate pizza and did a little dancing. We wore shirts that that declared Ben as "The Most Interesting Man in the World". (Tagline: I don't often prefer to walk, but when I do, I Buddy Walk. Appropriate, right?) Ben reveled in the attention and I loved being around the greatest people in the world.

Events celebrating people with Down Syndrome cross all barriers...social, economic, racial. I love complimenting parents on their adorable new babies and watching people in their 50's with Down Syndrome get down on the dance floor. It's truly a privilege to be part of this community.

Buddy Walk 2012. It's never too soon to reserve your spot!

Crystal B

2011-10-12T12:46:00.000-07:00

Our 2nd Annual SoNo Park Holiday Fest is coming up soon (Dec. 4th) and I get to be vendor recruiter this year. The best part of that job is meeting new people who are incredibly talented and creative!

Crystal B. will be joining us this year from Temecula. Check out her adorable blog and etsy shop. Welcome Crystal!

Raising Boys

2011-10-12T12:10:00.000-07:00

You know you're raising boys when the punch card in your wallet is for mice.

Ben's Day

2011-10-11T10:57:00.000-07:00

Sometimes Ben gets caught in the middle since he's such a "go with the flow" guy. Plus he's actually the middle child :) Pretty much happy to be doing whatever we all decide to do as a family. But once a year Ben gets his own day.

Yes, it's time for the San Diego Buddy Walk. (def: a short walk at Balboa park followed by food and other fun stuff, surrounded by the coolest people in the world and their families). This Sat., Oct 15th, 10am.

Join us! I promise an awesome free t-shirt made by me, and an event you won't soon forget. Call me.

Etsy | Halloween Favorites

2011-10-07T23:16:00.000-07:00

{ Icing on the Paper} { Brighton Crock} { A Vintage Obsession}

{Aislinn Creations} {Mud puppy} {Curls and Paper}

{My Lavaliere} {Pretty Pop Tops} {Inspirational Banners}

{Cow Country Creations} {Tiny Dreaded Thistle} {Burke Hare Co}

My Three Sons | Screen Prints

2011-10-05T11:17:00.000-07:00

I finally got around to getting these in the shop! Check out the new t-shirts, onesies and organic bibs with fun retro designs. I'll be adding more designs and sizes often, so come back if you don't see what you're looking for. Larger kids sizes by request.

Free Shipping on everything in the shop this month. Yippee!
(use "FREESHIP" as discount code)

Vintage Glass Wine Stoppers

2011-10-05T10:55:00.000-07:00

If you're like me and think older is better, these vintage doorknob wine stoppers might be right up your alley. I make each by hand with one-of-a-kind knobs and other vintage hardware. No two are the same. That's another thing I like, having something no one else has. :) Junior high, I know.

Perfect hostess gift or for your favorite wine "expert". (aren't we all!)

Clear Glass Stoppers | 35.

Sun-Colored Glass Stoppers (second picture) | 40.

They'll be available in the shop soon, but for now leave a comment if you're interested in purchasing and I'll be in touch.

Discover San Diego | Architectural Salvage

2011-10-04T07:30:00.000-07:00

Love, love, LOVE, Architectural Salvage. Have you been? Part vintage design mecca, part treasure hunt, it's the best shop around for finding just the right vintage piece. The glass doorknobs and leaded glass windows had me drooling. The door and cabinet hardware sections can't be beat. And the lighting...don't get me started. My next house will have a chandelier or schoolhouse light from here. I found myself wishing I had a spot for the "WOW" sign and flower light fixture. Bear had his fingers crossed that the resident shop cat was for sale. That cat was large and in charge.

Next time you're in San Diego, swing by Little Italy to shop at Architectural Salvage. Save time for lunch at Burger Lounge or Bencotto. Perfect end to your architectural shopping spree.

Captured

2011-10-03T12:00:00.000-07:00

Snake Show & Tell

I Heart Turtles

Arizona Sunset

Tour de Fat

2011-10-03T07:30:00.000-07:00

It was a pretty exciting weekend in our neighborhood as Tour de Fat (bikes + beer fest) rolled through town. Just 13 cities have the privilege of being on their national tour, and not only was San Diego on the list, but our neighborhood park was the location.

It started out early with a massive bike parade. All you needed was a costume and a bike to join in the fun. My favorite was the group of beer-drinking Mormon missionaries. Bear joined in the revelry as Dash, while Lincoln pulled out Harry Potter for one last run. Post-parade fun involved games, bands, bratwurst and beer. New Begium Brewery hosts the event and the Fat Tire was flowing. I helped myself to one IPA but was wishing I had booked a sitter for a second :)

They'll be in Los Angeles Oct. 8th, and Tempe Oct 15th. Throw on a costume, hop on your bike and check it out!

How You Like Them Apples?

2011-09-29T10:01:00.000-07:00

As I put out my pumpkins the other day, I realized that I was pre-maturely moving into pumpkin season. I forgot about apples. Unforgivable considering my Washington state (apple capital of the world) roots. The September of my youth was spent picking apples in our orchard and pressing them into cider with our neighbors, adorned in bell bottoms and flannels.

There's a 70's neighborhood co-op picture for ya.

Just to confirm the situation, John brought me my Sunset magazine yesterday and pointed to the Apple-crisp baked apples with a "I want to make these." Those words don't come out of my husbands mouth. Ever. So apples it is.

Caramelized onion-apple bites .
Invite yourself over and I'll make you these.

Toasted Turkey, Brie and apple sandwiches.
My panini maker is calling.

Apple-crisp baked apples.
John, I'm waiting.

Curried Apple-Pumpkin Soup.
My gateway food to pumpkin season.

Spooky

2011-09-27T09:51:00.000-07:00

Found these fun vinyl stick-ons at So Childish yesterday. They got me in the Halloween spirit so I pulled out all of my decorations and got to decorating. Lincoln was a bit miffed that the stick-on skeleton is smiling, but I'm working my way into the "scary" stuff slowly but surely.

I'm feeling some Halloween craftiness coming on...

Halloween T's

2011-09-23T12:00:00.000-07:00

I've been busy creating fun things just in time for Halloween. Check them out in the shop! Isn't my t-shirt model the cutest? I had to bribe him with taffy, but it was worth it for the action shots.

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip

2011-09-20T09:40:00.000-07:00

To celebrate John's exercise feat of strength, I made him cookies. Not exactly his favorite, but close. (he prefers raisins, but you get what you get and you don't throw a fit, right?)

Warm out of the oven are best, so I'd recommend freezing the batter and baking them up as you are going to eat them. Or bake them all and pass them out to neighbors. You'll be the most popular girl on your street. So good.

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

2 sticks (1/2 pound) unsalted butter, softened
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 cups brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 large eggs
1 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3 cups rolled oats, old fashioned
9 oz. chocolate chips (dried cherries are a delicious substitute)

Using an electric mixer, beat butter and brown sugar until mixture is creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating 30 seconds after each egg. Add vanilla and mix.

Stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Blend dry flour mixture into creamed mixture. When flour mixture is incorporated, stir in oats and chocolate chips.

Preheat oven to 350°. Drop chilled dough by tablespoonfuls about 3 inches apart. Flatten each mound to promote a crisp texture. Bake 6 minutes and then rotate pan 180 degrees for another 5-6 minutes, or just until cookies puff and are lightly golden brown. Do not overbake. Enjoy!

Weekend Re-Cap

2011-09-19T12:07:00.000-07:00

Not exactly a restful weekend, but definitely fun! We started out by cheering John on at his first triathalon. We were so proud. Under three hours for his first time. He looked great right afterwards, and then slept all afternoon. If a mile swim, 30 mile bike ride and 6 mile run isn't a reason for a nap I don't know what is...

Yesterday we were treated to a Padres game by our pediatrician's office. They picked Ben cause he's so handsome. :) We pigged out on hot dogs, cotton candy and snow cones. Padres gave it up to the Diamondbacks, but we still used our foam finger like we were totally winning.

Happy International "Talk Like a Pirate" Day! Yes, it does exist. (thanks Jessica)

Ferry to Sausalito

2011-09-16T19:56:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite days on our trip to San Francisco was taking the ferry to Sausalito. So relaxing to ride the boat over and spend a few hours meandering through shops, stopping for fish tacos at Horizons and wine tasting along the way.

Bought my first poncho of the season, feather earrings (showcased in my wine tasting photo above!), and some gorgeous fall scarves. Found a great home & gift shop called Hillside. Good day with old friends. Can't beat that.

Fall Fashion | Ponchos

2011-09-16T18:08:00.000-07:00

Are you ready to stock up on ponchos this fall? I'm totally up for it. They've got some shape to them, are comfortable and perfect for mild climates like San Diego. I'm not quite ready for the cape trend that's also arrived, but ponchos are a definite yes. Here are a few that I'm thinking about picking up for fall...

Missoni for Target (out of stock right now...did you hear how nuts women went over Missoni's debut?)

H & M

Forever 21

Bear Dates

2011-09-15T18:06:00.000-07:00

One of the best parts about school being back in session is more one-on-one time with Bear. He's game for just about anything and that makes our outings pretty fun. He's got a three-errand-cap, but as long as we throw a trip to the park or zoo in, he's back in the game.

Lately he's been wanting to take his monkey backpack everywhere, even when he's not carrying a thing. He likes to say "seriously?" when he loses games on the iPad. He would eat Trader Joe's macaroni and cheese for every meal if I let him, and he looks adorable in his skinny jeans. (see above)

I never liked the label "mama's boy" but he's secretly mine.

The Ferry Building

2011-09-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

I could have stayed at the Ferry Building all day. Full of fresh food & local handmade, every shop was better than the last. If you're in the mood for artisan cheese, flavored olive oil or homemade jam, it's there. Succulent wreaths, french pastries, mid-century pottery? Got that too.

If I lived in San Francisco, this place would be a weekly stop. Here are some of my favorites...

Heath Ceramics

The Gardener

Miette

Cowgirl Creamery Artisan Shop

McEvoy Ranch Olive Oil

Kingdom of Herbs

Far West Fungi

Tartine

2011-09-13T20:18:00.000-07:00

Remember my last comment about gaining 5 lbs in San Francisco? It was actually 6. I'm not exaggerating. Tartine must take responsibility for itself. I couldn't stop myself. I felt like Bill Murray eating his corn in "What About Bob?". So good.

This Croque Monsieur might be the most delicious thing I've ever eaten. Smothered in shitake mushrooms, bechamel and gruyere. What's not to like?

The morning bun and chocolate croissant were exceptional. The cappucino was delicious and artistic at the same time. The tarts...well, have you ever met a tart you didn't like?

I even told the waiter this was the best food I'd ever eaten. I know, a bit over-zealous, but I really did feel that way at the time. Check out the look on my face. I was happy. So happy.

I'll be ordering one of their cookbooks to get me by until my next trip to San Francisco. I know I say this every time I come back from a new city, but I could totally live in San Fran. Right across the street from Tartine.

City by the Bay

2011-09-08T07:00:00.000-07:00

image via Oh Happy Day

Heading to San Francisco tomorrow with my oldest girlfriends. Some of us date back to 1983. Old friends definitely know way too much about you :)

Four days in the city should give us enough time to do some real damage in the food and shopping departments. I'm hoping to get some pastries at Tartine, shop the Ferry Building, have dinner at Mission Chinese Food and if I'm really, really lucky, a walk across the Golden Gate.

I'll be back next week with lots of stories and about five extra pounds. Worth it!

Roast Vegetables

2011-09-08T06:50:00.000-07:00

My kids ate all of their veggies tonight. Yes, you read that right. ALL of them. Sometimes you just happen upon the right combination from your produce drawer and spice rack. Thought I'd share in case your kids needs some veggies too.

Roast Veggies | Byard Style

2-3 carrots, peeled and cut into 1 inch cubes

15-20 french green beans, snapped in half

1/2 white or yellow onion, sliced

8 oz. crimini mushrooms, quartered

8-10 small gold potatoes, quartered

2 tbs. chopped fresh chives

2 tsp. herbs de provence

Sea salt to taste

Ground black pepper to taste

1/2 c. olive oil

Combine vegetables and toss with chives and spices. Drizzle olive oil over top, toss again. Season with salt & pepper. Bake at 375 degrees for 50 min to 1 hour, or until potatoes and carrots are tender.

Happening Now

2011-09-07T21:54:00.000-07:00

Sunset over Golden Hill.

McKinley Pride

2011-09-06T11:58:00.000-07:00

It's official. School has started as of 9:10 this morning. It's so quiet in my car. My house. At Starbucks. You get the idea.

Don't my boys look dapper? Maybe a little heavy on "gray" this year, but it's so cool I couldn't say no. Lincoln's sporting the skinny jeans and Chuck Taylors. Ben's more of a Hurley kind of guy. Bear's still a little less discriminating but I hooked him up all the same.

Can't say I shed many tears this morning as I tried to not burn rubber out of the parking lot. :) I'm feeling a great school year coming on. Thank you McKinley staff. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

Odds & Ends

2011-09-02T17:05:00.000-07:00

Image via Hither & Thither

Beach Houses are the best.

I need this rug.

Going to try graffiti on my block wall.

Best studio ever.

Food Photography is so cool.

Cutest clothes for little girls.

Lemons!

Hope you have fun plans this weekend! Linc and I are going on our annual school shopping date, including breakfast and a movie. I'm feeling a little back-to-school nesting coming on. Maybe a few closets and dressers to organize. Yippee! See you back here next week...

Cheesy

2011-09-01T09:07:00.000-07:00

image via Bon Appetit

Welcome September! New school clothes, backpacks, & grilled cheese. Here are a few recipes we will be filling our bellies with.

California, Pear & Bacon, Tomato & Pesto | Real Simple

Ultimate Grilled Cheese & Mushroom Croque-Monsieur | Bon Appetit

Sage Grilled Cheese | Serious Eats

Green Goddess | Panini Happy

Grilled Beer & Cheese | Honest Fare

Jarlsberg Grilled Cheese & Ham | Southern Sous Chef

Pencil Vases

2011-08-31T16:53:00.000-07:00

Had a great time today helping put on the "welcome back" lunch for our school's teachers. I'm so thankful for how much they give to my kids. Looking forward to next Tuesday's drop off!

These were the centerpieces I did for the tables and thought I'd share a little DIY. Fun for a teacher gift any time of the year.

Supplies |

1 family-sized soup can (tall can)

40 Colored Pencils

Hot glue gun

Wood skewer

Scrapbooking paper or notecards

Flowers of your choice

Instructions |

1. Clean your soup can and remove the outer wrapper. Dry completely

2. Use one colored pencil, point side up, to create a baseline along seam of can. Needs to be very straight for the rest of the pencils to line up. Glue on.

3. Continue around the can gluing your pencils on, pushing them tightly together. If they are tight with no space between you'll be able to fit 40 pencils.

4. Cut two same sized pieces of paper/notecard to make your sign. Write your message on one or both of the pieces.

5. Thoroughly cover the back side of one of your papers with hot glue. Quickly put the top 1-2 inches of your skewer in the middle. Put the back side of the other paper on top of the glue covered paper and skewer.

6. Put water in your can and arrange flowers. Push sign into your flower arrangement.

7. Bring to school on the first day for big teacher points. You can cash them in later :)

So Close

2011-08-31T15:33:00.000-07:00

Look at my boy go! Get ready to party when Benners takes off on his own...

Monster Party

2011-08-29T06:01:00.000-07:00

We celebrated our friend Henry's 7th birthday in Monster style. The boys had a great time and I loved all of the creative things you can make "monster".

Monster glasses

Monster melon

Monster mapping

Monster cake

Monster toss

Monster making

Monster t-shirts

Vintage Find

2011-08-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

Vintage stand with brass finials and wheels. Yard sale goodness.

Back to School Etsy Finds

2011-08-25T09:41:00.000-07:00

Idea Pad

Birchwood Pencil Holder

Brooklyn Bridge Lunch Bag

Backpack Tags

Lunch Box Notes

Looking forward to my school shopping date with Lincoln next week...until then, here's some fun things I'm looking at on Etsy. 11 days and counting!

Jaws + Painting?

2011-08-24T19:21:00.000-07:00

Tonight's agenda: Lincoln's first viewing of Jaws and painting my dining room this gorgeous shade of blue. (Palladian Blue by Benjamin Moore)

"This shark...swallow you whole". Yikes.

DIY | Map Art

2011-08-23T14:27:00.000-07:00

I love old windows. But I get tired of looking at the same old thing. This window has been backed with fabric, pictures and now this vintage style map. This is a super quick and easy project.

Here's what you'll need...

- Black or white foam board (Joann's or Michael's)

- Spray adhesive. I use 3M's Super 77 multi-purpose adhesive.

- Map or poster for display (same size or bigger than window opening)

- Box cutter or rotary blade

Here's how to do it...

- Clean the back side of your window/window panes

- Measure the inside width and height of your window opening.

- Measure your map and decide how much you'll need to cut off to fit the window opening.

- Spray adhesive on the back of your map and adhere to foam board. Start in one corner and work your way across using a credit card to smooth out bubbles.

- Mark the spots where you'll need to cut on your foam board. Use your box cutter on a flat surface to score and then cut off the excess foam board to fit your window opening. You'll want a snug fit in the window.

- Push your foam board into the opening in the back. If your window doesn't have extra space in the back, use mailing tape or another temporary adhesive to hold the map in place.

- Clean the front of your window panes & hang

Beach Camping

2011-08-22T17:43:00.000-07:00

We survived! Four nights and five days in the "wild". We camped in the sycamores, yet were so close to the beach we could hear the waves crashing at night. Did all the classic camping stuff....games, Beiber songs around the campfire, s'mores (highly recommend the french version!), hiking, etc. We hit the beach every day to add a little sand to the dirt covering our bodies.

Camping is great. Coming home is even better. :)

Odds & Ends

2011-08-12T19:34:00.000-07:00

Image via StephModo

Northwest Berry Pie. Yum.

Love my big, open windows and views from each room. More rooms with a view.

Plan on sticking these new stamps to every letter.

Sailing in Greece. Yes, please.

The cutest wedding favor ever.

I'm obsessed with giants letters. These comic book letters are adorable for boys.

Pretty vacation book. Doesn't hurt that the vacation was in England!

What are you up to this weekend? We'll be packing up the cars and heading out for our Malibu camping trip. I'm a classic over-packer for things like this, so I'm trying to weed out the non-essentials. Big shopping trip tomorrow for all of the delicious camp food we'll be eating! Have a great week and I'll be back with tales of our time at the beach. Yippee!

Year in Pictures

2011-08-11T17:04:00.000-07:00

Our family art wall has turn into a photo gallery. Printed the year's best pictures out in black & white, different sizes and mounted on black foam core. My favorites are the square 12 x 12's. Added in a few quotes from the Queen Bee Market. John pointed out that I didn't include any pictures of myself. Oops. I guess I'll be doing a little more printing...

Del Mar

2011-08-09T19:51:00.000-07:00

We went to the horse races this weekend and I think we're hooked. Despite being our first time, and not having a clue what we were doing, we won! John bet on a long-shot horse and when he won we celebrated like we were the horse's owners. Thanks for joining us Pitkins. I'm sure you'll be the big winners next time :)

Creative Camping

2011-08-05T09:43:00.000-07:00

We're heading out to the "wilderness" next weekend for what could become our annual camping trip. (Beach camping in Malibu...is that camping?) John and I have different opinions about what you can classify as "camping". I'd like to pitch one of these spring bar tents & he'd like to rent the teardrop trailer to sleep in. I'm thinking we'll probably end up in our big family tent as usual!

I'll definitely be trying these french style s'mores, and a top priority is a campsite with trees large enough to hang a hammock.

Have you done any camping this summer? Any equipment you can't live without?

Spring bar tent + quilts via Martawrites

French style s'mores with Petit Ecolier Cookies via Steph Modo

Teardrop trailer kitchen + bed for two

Hammock Camping via Soule Mama

Queen Bee Market in SD

2011-08-05T08:44:00.000-07:00

I've heard the Queen Bee is the coolest market around for all things handmade so I have to see for myself. I'm excited to pick up a few treasures and collect some new DIY ideas. Tomorrow morning...join me!

Images via The Pleated Poppy

The Perfect Rug

2011-08-04T21:13:00.000-07:00

Of all the decisions to be made when designing a room, choosing the right rug is the most difficult in my opinion. A rug that compliments the room, but doesn't overtake it. One that is comfortable, long-wearing and affordable. A tall order to fill.

After months of looking, today was the day. West Elm's new "Tangled" wool rug. Chunky, plush, hand-looped wool in grey and ivory. Built for wrestling boys in the day and lounging on to watch the Bachelor at night. Perfect

Hooray!

2011-08-01T15:07:00.000-07:00

Bear's mixed reaction to hugging "Dr. Evil", the camp villain

A new logo! I'm so excited about it. What do you think?

We're headed home from Oakbridge tomorrow. It's been a great month, but we're ready to settle back into the Giant Peach and kick back a bit. The kids are all water-logged, tan and a little bit sassy for my taste. It'll be a bit of Byard boot camp this week. I'm sure it's been a little bit quiet around the neighborhood with our boys gone, but it's about to get a whole lot noisier...

Odds & Ends

2011-07-29T15:13:00.000-07:00

Image via Sunday Suppers

I'm itching for another trip to NYC. The Fat Radish will definitely be on my list.

Bike riding with Benners is a challenge. We might need to spring for one of these cool cargo bikes.

Really in love with white kitchens. Really, really in love with a fireplace in the kitchen.

Coconut + Chocolate. Thanks Marta.

I need an orange tree in my house. These pics are gorgeous.

My kids are always asking for a light on at bedtime. This DIY fox lamp might do the trick.

Quick, easy and delicious. Hot artichoke dip from PW. Double batch it.

Have a wonderful weekend! More of the same up here at camp...snake hunting, guacamole eating, pool-side lounging, kid watching and game playing. Fun stuff! Someone go to Starbucks and Target in my honor, please.

See you Monday!

Discover San Diego | Oakbridge Edition

2011-07-28T21:02:00.000-07:00

Once the last bus of campers pulls out of Oakbridge, it's a mad cleaning rush to squeeze out every possible moment of free time before the next buses arrive.

This week the itinerary was full of San Diego's finest experiences, jam packed into about 6 hours. Starting out with a visit to the finest Yogurt shop in town, Cup of Yo.

Note the gigantic grin on my face as I arrived to find not only my favorite flavor, Taro Tart, but it had been named in my honor. Happy day, I tell you.

Everyone had their fill of fro yo (thanks Currans!) before we headed out to Cabrillo Monument. This led to lots of oohs and ahhs from our out-of-towners.

Next, a trip to Ortiz's for California Burritos. This was Lincoln's first, and it left him speechless. (for those of you that know Lincoln, speechless is not a word commonly associated with my first born)

No trip to San Diego would be complete without a Padres Game. Great seats, good food and perfect weather almost made up for their loss to the Diamondbacks. Good livin'.

Bring it on week four, we're ready!

Summer Lonny

2011-07-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Have you had time to look at Lonny this month? As usual it's full of beautiful homes, design ideas, and unique products. It was hard to choose just three, but here are my favorites...

Nate Burkus' Chicago Offices. Love the concrete floors, outdoor pendant lamps, trestle tables, and open space.

Love the black trim against white bedding in the bed nook, the sectional facing the windows, and geometric rug under the white-washed wood table.

Love the deep daybed, cluster of chandeliers, and wood paneling in this outdoor space.

Linc's First Ropes Course

2011-07-26T14:06:00.000-07:00

Before

During

After

Curly

2011-07-26T13:45:00.000-07:00

Jordan's hair has me considering retiring my flat iron and digging out my old curling iron. So cute, right?

Weekend Re-Cap

2011-07-25T20:27:00.000-07:00

Sullivan and Bear rockin' it western style

We're wrapping up week three here at Oakbridge, and we did the weekend up right. My kids are starting to think it's normal to have cotton candy, snow cones and a carnival on a weekly basis.

We took a girl's trip up to Julian on Saturday for shopping and lunch at the Julian Grille. Highly recommend it if you're traveling up that way anytime soon. The portobello veggie grilled sandwich and potato leek soup were incredible.

Lincoln adopted a newborn Rosy Boa that was found here at camp as his new pet. Yes, that's a snake. A real, live boa constrictor. But a very friendly breed, and is starting to grow on me. That's a good thing since it's about six inches now, but will eventually be 4 feet long :) Boys are awesome.

Looking forward to our final week of camp!

Captured | Oakbridge Edition

2011-07-22T13:28:00.000-07:00

"Mom, shiver me timbers"

Yes, the mustache is real

Bench pressing 80 lbs. of boy

Ben's favorite new mode of transportation

Skillet Peach Cobbler

2011-07-21T08:49:00.000-07:00

image via Bon Appetit

My food highlight of our Seattle trip was this delicious peach cobbler my sister made. Couldn't eat mine fast enough! Perfect use for summer peaches.

Skillet Peach Cobbler

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons salt
2 large eggs, beaten to blend
1 1/2 cups crème fraîche, divided
1 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 pounds peeled, pitted peaches, each cut into 1/2 inch wedges (about 2 cups)
1 cup Peach Preserves
1 cup chilled heavy cream
2 tablespoons sugar

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350°. Whisk first 4 ingredients in a medium bowl. Whisk eggs, 1/2 cup crème fraîche, milk, and vanilla in a medium bowl. Add egg mixture to dry ingredients; whisk until smooth. Melt butter in a 12 inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Swirl pan to coat with butter. Remove from heat.
Add batter to pan. Scatter fresh peaches over, then spoon dollops of preserves evenly over batter. Bake until a tester inserted into center of cobbler comes out clean, 45-50 minutes. Let cool slightly. Meanwhile, whip cream in a medium bowl to form soft peaks. Fold in sugar and remaining 1 cup crème fraîche. Cut cobbler into wedges and serve with whipped cream mixture.