most likely LATE...

2011-12-23T08:09:00.000-08:00

circus family...2011

2011-11-30T01:03:00.000-08:00

lion.russian trapeze artist.tight rope walker.lion tamer.

{& when oliver wasn't a lion.. beckham took on the lead as

ringleader..he loved wearing the top hats..}

im like the ringleader. i call the shots.

2011-11-21T22:55:00.000-08:00

striped lined coat-tails.red velvet.gold sequin trim.grandma cocos buttons.duponi silk. and a nut.

elastic sequins have changed my life. i want to never use ugly elastic ever again.

this stuff is genius..just remember to tape the ends before you cut.

for his pants: i just cut his legs extra wide up top so it would be bunchy+balloon

out a little..same pattern for jammies.i sewd these babies up in less then 10min.

totally proud if i dont say so myself..first time makin a jacket..

a military jacket! i couldn't find any patterns online..so i just patterned it

after one of mr beckhams dress shirts and made one side extra wide..

started making a practice round with a fun black+white striped fabric..and voila!

i made it into the lining!sleeves were pretty tricky.. i now know you

sew up the side-into the armpit-then down the bottom seam of the arm.

. . .

and added some pretty awesome coat tails..

halloween party #3 of 4

2011-11-15T00:21:00.000-08:00

oliver had many looks this year.. i was really hoping to save this theme for when i have more kiddies...but i just couldn't wait..!

oliver was a muscle man here..even sported the curly chest hair +stache

somewhere throughout the night he misplaced his 100 pound weight barbel.

todd decided this costume was too revealing for our church party for him to wear..

but dont worry... i let everyone know he wore it the night before..

halloween soiree:come if you dare. . ..

2011-11-10T01:11:00.000-08:00

a night of shrieks and shrills..

1exotic orange snake..3fire belly spotted frogs..20something gold fish..80large crickets

hundreds of baby crickets..live meal worms..6 creepy mice..spiders+creepy crawlies galore! yuuuuck!

chocolate covered ant-filled test tubes+ ghoulish gummy worms..TERRIBLY TOXIC.

tomato basil bisque filled borosilicated glass test tubes.buy them here..

let the games begin! we started off nice+sweet with a few minute to win-it games..

then brought out the specimens..mmooohoohohoahahahahaaha!

FEAR FACTOR+MAD scientist....

.let the games begin.

mexican flavored larve...mmmmm

{actually these were super yum, next year ill bake a mexican chocolate cake+put these on top!!}

chicken tallons.pig feet.giant cow leg.

yup. i said cow leg.

..cricket relay..

dissecting: BARN YARD OWL PELLETS

must find a scull+5 bones

then you must consume the remains.

kidding.but why didn't we think of THAT!?

todd+i went as a circus couple:tight rope walker+russian trapeze artist

todds balls were the talk of the night!

loooved our fred+wilma couple..even brought coordinating chips+dip!

donut party...jealous?

2011-10-24T00:49:00.000-07:00

here daaahling..let me feed you some donut holes..

why is chilled water so pretty? love. im going to start keeping

chilled water readily available for our spontaneous adventures.

plus bottled water is so...2005 come on people..save the earth.

wha cuhla you liiiike

rainbow.chocolate jimmies.peanuts.mini choc chips.swedish sugar.non-perils

im pretty sure there is nothing better

then fresh+HOT donuts. recipe..HERE or HERE

start with a pumpkin batter..good news:no rising time on this one!

to save a giant flour fight..tho fun..i threw this in a pastry bag

which gave them a nice bakery texture look..

these pictured are actually donut holes from the remaining bits

fav fav concoction..since we had very vanilla and pumpkin batter to choose from..

pumpkin spice.lemon.chocolate.vanilla bean icings..

. . . . . .

pumpkin.pumpkin glacé.cinnamon-sugar shaker+thick chunky sugar crystalshttp://mostlikelylate.blogspot.com/2007/12/sugar.html

..yummy corn..

2011-10-23T23:58:00.000-07:00

fresh cojita+bacon infused butter

.aghhghhhhghhh..

your guests will leave slurrrrring their speech like Homer Simpson

{cojita- is that mexican crumbly cheese..pick up this kind only at a mexican market}

cook up half a bag of bacon-cut up first..then drain+then add 1 stick of BUTTAH.

let it infuse while you cook the corn..strain or serve with bacon..

Lobster mac

2011-10-18T02:22:00.000-07:00

OCTOBER1st is the first day of LOBSTER fishin

..and guess who went at midnight..

yep! mr. toddi.got the scuba gear and all! came back with these 3 beauties.

boiled.cracked.yank..and i mean YANK out the goods and roast till browned.

then added it to a homemade alfredo topped with herbs+panko crumbs...

DE.LISH.

2011-10-15T00:29:00.000-07:00

cirque de bebe

a little french inspired bebe shower for my dearest sissy

this isn't the only thing striped at the party..hold on.

2011-10-01T01:45:00.000-07:00

home made:

madagascar vanilla bean

vanilla

thinking of home made christmas gifts? this one takes about 2 months...so start now.split a vanilla bean down the center to release the gooey caviar+add enough fancy vodka or RUM to cover..ta dah!! now go make some! do your research..some vanilla beans are better and more flavorful then others..so dont just buy the cheap ones..mexican vanilla is not even invited to this party.{ps..this image is from day one..vanilla beans should stay completely submerged}shake once a week to release the fragrance +oils..it is fully extracted by month 6..this is when you can strain it..but i like to see the flecks and caviar chunks.

1.5 beans-1 cup vodka. running a little low? just top it off with a little more and add in an extra bean next time your whippin up some creme brûlée.

..i dropped these off for <3 day for my dearest valentines..

2011-09-29T14:35:00.000-07:00

..our favorite time of year..

is here!

pumpkin pancakes+creepy candlelit dinners+apothecary critters+chocolate covered exotic insects

pumpkin+banana+whole wheat pancakes

just add a scoop or two of pumpkin puree+ a mashed brown banana.

the browner the sweeter. dont be afraid of the spotted black banana.

this year we added witches brooms overhead..i'd love to add hanging harry potter candles too!!

2011-09-29T00:08:00.000-07:00

roasted caprese pasta

{all from the garden!}

heirloom tomato.red onion.garlic.fresh basil.buffalo mozzarella.balsamic vinegar

summer time is coming to a close..a chilllll is in the air and we have already decorated for halloween..woohoo! i am going to miss this summer staple.mr. gharring was just about done with this..where i could drink up the sauce right from the pan.if you still have tomatoes in your garden..make this tonight! roast everything you've got..drizzle with balsamic+olive oil s+p take out and toss with cubes of fresh mozzarella+basil chiffinade..toss with fresh pasta!!+ thick shavings of parm.

.sorry for the iphone photos.

2011-09-25T10:31:00.000-07:00

..a vErY *MARY* uNbiRtHdAy..for our dearest mary.

so happy to have her in my life.so happy she turned 30!

more pics.papergoodies.pastries & how to's a comin..

heres a sneaker peak!

all images taken by jason maughan. i heart j!

2011-09-21T07:27:00.000-07:00

another wedding! this time: hair+makeup+paper goods+pillows

how cute it this itinerary/fan idea!

i love love love how these turned out!

all photos by ashley henry & mariah baddas

2011-09-06T01:23:00.000-07:00

only 5 ingredients!

my dear next door neighbor has Celiac disease..

so i have to come up with different treats i can make her..how bout..

chocolate flourless torte!??

eggs.powdered sugar.vanilla.butter.chocolate.

i like to use parchment to line my cupcakes mostly cause im lazy.

they make for the EASIEST+quickest cleanup! annnnd cause they

make em look kinda rustic in a cute cafe like way..

..dont forget to serve it with some yummy vanilla bean creme..

or espresso creme..amaretti creme..or cardamom creme!

2011-09-05T23:12:00.000-07:00

papergoodies::

these wedding itinerary/program fans turned out so fun!

designed em..had them printed.. and cut.whew!

used this same shape throughout and mixed up

different patterns+shades of yellow

all placecards were then pearl*pinned

on this giant striped board+along with striped twine

more to come including:

dessert bar labels+favor tags+table #'s..

2011-09-05T10:44:00.000-07:00

how does your garden grow..

roasted butternut squash+eggplant+red onion.

pesto creme sauce.amaretti cookie crumbles.fresh buffalo mozzarella.

all items grown organically from our garden

(except the buffalo-workin on that+the cookies)

2011-08-29T09:36:00.000-07:00

...ever wonder which darn bread to buy? whether to buy one at all?this girl researched over 70 labels to find the heartiest+most healthy for you and your kiddies.

click here for the full article.

a few key points:

the more expensive the better for YOU.the cheaper..the crappier.

unless your making monte cristos there is NO reason to poison your family with wonderbread.

'the whiter the bread..the sooner your dead'-see my dad was good for something.

im going to brave making some EZEKIEL bread from scratch..

yep..sprouted wheat and all.

this recipe or this one..

2011-08-16T23:10:00.000-07:00

chocolates from the honey.is there anything better..?

..a whole box of chocolates perfectly picked?

mmmm Bordeaux..Molasses chips..caramel patties..

2011-08-12T01:05:00.000-07:00

sneaker peak..

aliens+astronauts

2011-08-10T01:19:00.000-07:00

Croque monsieur..ummmm hello yum.
fried cheese..yes please.Gruyere?yes please!
dijon?{in Tina Fey's own words..}
thats a deal breaker.
make sure your bread is yummy.
your ham is fresssh and have a mighty big salad to
wash down that greesy greesy cheese sandwhich.
ina's recipe here.. i got mine from a panini cook book..
but they are all the same.only like 4 real ingredients.

2011-08-05T17:34:00.000-07:00

DIAPER DELIVERY!! best thing ever..
compared to Costco diapers-costco size 4 are 20¢each..
these with amazonMOM come down to 16¢...
& FREE SHIPPING+come once a month.
best part:now i have more room in my mini
for croissants+cheese danishes mmMmm
click here to start your subscription
did you know you can subscribe to laundry+dish soap too?
see ma? i dont need a minivan!! i'll stay with ma mini.
ps. these are for oliver in case you're wondering. i am a proud
parent of a 2year old potty training success.
cross your fingers oli will be ready for it..

2011-08-05T17:10:00.000-07:00

...look what i found sleeping in MY bed!!!
i am the worst mom..i could NOT stop laughing.
im pretty impressed..he even managed to do the same to his back....!?
how LONG did this take him? he thought he was pretty cool.
he even asked if we could have a PHOTOSHOOT.

2011-06-22T02:12:00.000-07:00

working on mr. B+oli's birthday announcement..super cute..get ready..get set..

wait a min. i need to get em in the mail before i put em up on here..ha!

ARCTIC ZERO.get some. like now.

2011-06-22T01:51:00.000-07:00

now @ flippin RALPHS+COSTCO.
so super proud of my big brother garrett.
his ice.cream is everywhere!
WHOLE FOODS.henrys.AMAZON.bristol farms
JIMBOS.kroger-RALPHS.sprouts.

i helped REdesign the packaging for his new ice cream bars..!

here are the crazy specs..
fat free.HIGH protein. 16g in a pint.120something calories.
beckham sneaks downstairs super early..eats this right out of the freezer..till i come down and make him messy eggs or a green smoothie or porridge.
and i dont care! its a protein shake! MADE WITH WHEY PROTEIN.
go check it out. our favorites are:
mint chocolate
vanilla maple
chocolate peanut butter
strawberry
super hot in hollywood.superhot for skinny b's everywhere.

easter garland!

2011-06-22T01:32:00.000-07:00

colorful and super fun RIBBON garland!
wanted to keep it up all week.
new boots.wooden construction guys+a few wormys.

beck+oli helped grow this wheat grass..so simple! and grows SO fast!
note:if you are growing to consume it..the most beneficial time is in the first sprout..
so be sure to juice or throw in your vitamixer on its FIRST cut.mmmMmm

beckham loved the crepe paper maze thru the whole house.

trip to PARIS.

2011-06-14T02:42:00.000-07:00

jordans giving away a trip to paris. really??
wish me luck!
i entered..!!
if you havent already...check this lady ouuuut.
click here to enter...
http://ohhappyday.com/2011/06/goes-to-paris/

2011-06-05T10:13:00.000-07:00

proud to announce:
HOME MADE organic YOGURT!

we've been wanting to make this for a while now..
glad we finally jumped on the band wagon.
we go through SO much yogurt..sorry fage..not doin it for us anymore.

our favorites:
strawberry.banana.honey.mango
only 3 ingredientes..really!
3+1/2C.organic low fat milk
1/2-1/4C.dry fat free milk
1/4C.yogurt!
its an amazing sub for sour cream+creme friache
sweeten with agave for smoothies!

crunchy thai noodle salad+won tons

2011-05-28T10:34:00.000-07:00

cream cheese.waterchestnuts.green onions.soy sauce.ricotta
the ricotta keeps the filling from melting and oozing out the corners..

recipe here!
just double the peanut butter+honey..
and make sure to use CRUNCHYpeanutbutter

2011-05-24T20:27:00.000-07:00

Happy spring!
Dropped this by for a few of my favorite ladies..
Beckham started sprouting a few weeks before Easter..and look!!
Ta dah! We did it! This is about the only thing we can keep alive..

1::Start by covering an entire cookie sheet with
WINTER WHITE WHEAT BERRIES
(find em at henrys in the bulk section)

2::Drown with water to the top of the pan
Let the sprouting begin! Takes about 2 days..
Then they're ready to be planted!

3::Sprinkle in pots full of planting soil..about an inch from the top..
then top with an inch if dirt.. Sprinkle with water and keep moist till sprouted..
(water morning and night for a few days)

Its so fun to see how much they grow every morning!!

.tomato basil bisque.

2011-05-24T09:39:00.000-07:00

heavy cream.tomatoes.basil.cracked black pepper.yum
so..i'm a cheater. a total pumpkin eater.
i buy the organic tomato soup from traders and
fancy it up with handfuls of fresh basil.
heavy cream.lots of fresh black pepper.and fresh
tomatoes.that's it! so yummy.
..and i've never been a fan of tomato soup.

i like to pair it with bell pepper crisps..not picured here..
seasoned flat bread topped with peppers
sauteed with lemons and garlic..topped with
melty provolone or mozzarella cheese
click here for both recipes.

2011-05-20T15:01:00.000-07:00

just realized what this groove is for!!

kidding...im sure its to catch the run off juices or something..
it is PERFECT! for cutting grapes for my little grapeater.
try it.just slide a knife toward you starting at the furthest grape.

2011-04-13T13:39:00.000-07:00

i want to be this kind of mom.
painting and getting messy with my kiddies..while still wearing fantastical heels.
ps. who stole all my rockin heels and replaced them with gem covered flats..?
intervention.now.

i love the wild a radical KELLY.
follow her while she shops+finds inspiration.
.my new favorite waste of time.

best news all week...

2011-04-01T08:15:00.000-07:00

after MUCH heartache and searching...
my favorite FAVORITE show is back.
HGTV has confirmed that filming is underway for another new show, 'Home by Novogratz'. sharing their latest projects and how they find their inspiration in decor, art, and how they actually raise seven kids in Manhattan! they are so inspiring, and make me think 7 children can totally be done..while still maintaining your artsy self!

JUST add SOCKS!

2011-03-31T23:44:00.000-07:00

that's right..DOORWAY PUPPET THEATRE..
i looked all over the google for a cute one..
sadly..they were all pretty ghetto and overly engineered..
so i came up with this one..
fitted with a fancy nancy tension rod..to fit in any doorway!
{found mine @ target..maybe 6$}

pendant flags.rickrack.stripes.polkadots.what else could you want?

i made a few different ones and gave them out as gifts..
including a box full of doodads to build your own SOCK PUPPETS!
so get messy! use those mismatched sockies..
and craft it up for family night!!
.

different color combos..

pom poms.assortment of colorful felt.googly eyes.
tinsel sticks.glitter glue.sequins.jewels+gems.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DRUM ROLL PLEASE
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
download the pdf and make a few for your favorites too!

of course..don't forget to thank me..and send pics of your creations.duh.
i printed on a cardboard paper..kinda jammed it thru my printer..
but packing paper would do great too

2011-03-26T09:22:00.000-07:00

.she's havin a boy.
her 3rd little mr.

arent these toppers cute!? i didnt have cupcakes to top..
so we used em for the cinnamon rolls.
buy them here..or i'll show a how to soon..
no sewing!just hotglue!my new BFF.
::crafty time::

tira's cute mother in law made these templates and craft station..
all ready with heat+bond and even an ironing station
so we could make sweet onesies for the new little man.
::menu::

Judys yummy swiss+ham strata
my maple espresso-ready in one hour-cinnamon rolls
Nordstroms Madeline coffee cake

..have some fresh tangerine juice..
or hand press them from the trees out back.
Emilys limey fruit cups were SO refreshing too.
sweet recipes here!
salty..here.

get these sweet ham+provolone croissants from KSANDWICHES.
random gem in SD.look em up.seriously so good.

i made this all blue+yellow garland with chunky pom poms.
im a sucker for pom poms.wish they were on everything.

::favors::
how cute did these bow ties turn out!
clip em on your little mr. or put in your hair or on a scarf.
miss emily put these together!

..and the invite of course..
linen paper.chevron.cute numbers.turquoise.yellow.grey

2011-03-06T11:01:00.000-08:00

office stuff.

care to see more?click here.

2011-03-06T10:51:00.000-08:00

stuffed bell peppers.the easy version.

leftover taco meat...
cheesy black beans...
mexican style quinoa...
(throw some fresh pico in+chopped cilantro+lime juice)
broil with pepperjack on top!
superquick.supertasty..kinda healthy?
stick in oven @400 till its bubbly and cheese gets toasty.

valentines GOOD EATS.

2011-03-05T23:38:00.000-08:00

we don't dare dine alone on v-day. too much good food
goin on in the kitchen..and going out for
overpriced Mignon is for the birds.

one year we paid about 3x the price for a set menu in some
swanky place in la jolla..and about died.not cause the $$
cause the food was THAT bad. now we vow to never do it again.
dinner parties.beach picnics.a little moulin rouge+tapas.
next year im thinking Chinese new year themed w/
homemade fortune cookies and spring rolls?sushi?..mmm

dinner party with our dear friends craig+mary.
craig whipped up this super rich+french steak au Poivre
we served along side..garlic rosemary potatoes.homemade rolls
{recipe here..}roasted green beans w/red onion+bacon+garlic business.

mary then finished off the night with her signature vanilla souffles!! brilliant.

2011-03-05T00:59:00.000-08:00

:happy valentines day:

{we sent these out as our Valentines in place of Christmas cards..}

the ones we sent out didn't have this border..
Oliver actually slept in this pram when he was teeny tiny.
todd'll kill me for it..but i want to keep it for my some day girl and put all her dolly's in it.
it was the perfect bassinet..even had hydraulics..and bounced when he'd wiggle.

::both fam sessions were taken by miss marla from SPROUT photography.

2011-03-05T00:06:00.000-08:00

fluer de sel+scotchmAllows..mmmMmm

steph+mary+i decided to get together to make some sweets.for our sweets.

instead of dousing the mallows in powdered sugar..
i dipped em in dark chocolate and then in toasted coconut..
i like different textures..just chewy would be just...chewy.
same for the caramels..scotchmallows won best all around.
salty.buttery sweet and fluffy.

we crafted it up with a little valentines making..for our loved ones..

just sewed scraps of fabric in rows with a zigzagger stitch..and cut em out..
then ran a stitch threw 10 of em for a fun{10 things i LOVE about you}garland.

wrapped with brown parchment paper..cut in squares with
pinkingshears.GO steph! we had quite the assembly
line going..can you believe this dream kitchen?
and to think we were going to set up shop in mine. ha!

mark bittman's recipe: we changed it to 240 for a softer chew.mmMmm.

4 T. butter

1½ C. heavy cream

2 C. sugar

½ C. light corn syrup

Pinch salt

1½ tsp vanilla

1. Lightly grease a 9-inch-square baking pan. Combine all ingredients except vanilla in a broad saucepan or deep skillet and turn heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.

2. Mixture will bubble and darken; when color is dark beige and mixture measures 235 degrees on a candy thermometer, it is butterscotch sauce. (Use immediately or refrigerate for up to several weeks; warm in a microwave oven or over hot water to soften.) To make caramels, keep cooking and stirring until mixture is even darker, nearly brown, and measures 245 degrees (or until a piece of it forms a firm ball when dropped into a glass of cold water).

3. Stir in the vanilla and pour into prepared pan. Cool, then remove from pan in a block and refrigerate, but not for too long - what you want is a mixture cool enough so that it's not too sticky, but not so cold that it's solid; this is the easiest state in which to cut and wrap.

4. Use a sharp knife to cut caramel into pieces, then wrap each square in waxed paper or plastic wrap. These keep for weeks, especially if refrigerated, but are best eaten fresh and at room temperature. Yield: At least 50 caramels.

::more recipes found here::

2011-02-25T00:46:00.000-08:00

mr oliver.

melts

my

heart.

2011-02-24T23:57:00.000-08:00

oliver-5mo

look at our cute little family..the word is in..
there are 2 more boys comin..
just played a baby fortune tellin game..and they fortuned:
2 boys..and 2 more on the way..what?
there has GOT to be a little sassy girl in the mix. but only one.

ps.this shot was takin in november.. b minus 10lbs..baby got back!
olivers not the only one with squishy cheeks.ah!gotta love that post baby glow.

2011-02-12T16:58:00.000-08:00

i made these for happy new year gifts.. all with vintage buttons..

i use mine for a checkbook holder..now that 2009 is over..

2011-02-11T01:30:00.000-08:00

.truffle making party.heart garland.meringues+macaroons

house tour3:

2011-02-11T00:49:00.000-08:00

our everything-room:

these should really be my before pictures..
..i REALLY want to paint those antlers fuchsia..but haven't found the right shade..
..dreaming about painting that wall turquoise and stripping those frames down to their original-gaudy GOLD..think Pantages Theater..
..looking for a vintage mantel.buy one for me if you see one. k thanks!

yep.another one of todds handi-crafted pieces..he whipped this up one afternoon..
made of $mahogany. he only works with exotic woods..so he tells me.
zebrano.australian lacewood.wenge.
i heart toddi.more on the coffee table later.

i made these ruffle pillows a year ago..need something new..
thinking a slate blue+navy+teal?..could be fun with this mustard that's not going anywhere..

mr 0liver wanted to say hi..

happy valentines day!

2011-02-11T00:46:00.000-08:00

this is my grandmothers ONLY wedding picture,
sweet huh.

HOUSE TOUR..

2011-01-23T11:34:00.000-08:00

Beckhams room..

pipe shelving a la toddi.im the luckiest girl in the world.
tho...i DID retexture this wall myself..5months prego.

it use to look like this..
burlap half way up..nasty orange-peel texture on the upper half.
why do people do chair-rails? it totally closed off half the room!
just cause pottery barn does it..DOES NOT mean its cool.

Beef Bourguignon

2011-01-21T01:11:00.000-08:00

new years resolution #1:: eat better.and blog about it.
i rarely cook with beef..so i bought the cheapest cut.didnt want to risk ruining a $$one..
they say beef bourguignon is a peasants supper:take the cheapest meat..
let it cook all day with left over garden finds and cheap wine..

this is the fanciest we've eaten in a while..ha!
so moist and RICH with flavor..the puree was ridiculous..
and all three of us LICKED our plates. really.

followed Ina's directions but changed a few things..
no leeks or bouillon cube
would rather make a reduction+real broth
ran out of burgundy..subbed out for..get ready..GRAPE JUICE!
(KEDEM..$8 but goes on sale for like a $1 during kosher time.)
didn't do the dutch oven this go around..with the packing gear.

get the recipe here..
don't forget to thank me.
for cooking again.

Beef Bourguignon:: english translation:
beef bor-gee-ñahn..with a silent n.

2011-01-21T00:38:00.000-08:00

Kelly+Wyatt
its scary how many BAD hairstylist+makeup artists there are out there..
poor Kelly had three run-thrus before me..what!?
if you don't do bridal makeup/up-dos...just walk away...
P.S.these looks are out:
90s prom ringlet tendrils
side part gelled headband
moussed barrel curls
frosted glittery lips
frosted brow bone
FROSTED ANYTHING!
butterfly clips.what the.
glitter spray
colored mascara

HOUSE TOUR..

2011-01-15T07:15:00.000-08:00

so i never post pics of my house cause i never think its 'ready' and we're always in the middle of projects..not a single room in my house is..well..done. and we've been here for threeeee+ years..what!?
so here goes..my less then perfect..
hipee/earthy/rustic/grandma/clean lines?/vintage ..house!

lets start with the stair gallery..

todd built us these super clean frames..out of stacks of plywood sandwiched together
::photographs by my super artsy uncle..taken on my great grandparents farm in Kansas+a few in England+Rome{funfact:he works for an ad agency-writing the commercials-innout+and some fun others..he also came up with rutti.tutti.freshnfruity.breakfast for ihop.. fun job eh?}

family pics..blown up to ridiculous sizes..

ruffle garland!..and mmmMmmMacaroons..

2011-01-15T06:23:00.000-08:00

sorry for the gazillion photos..im a little obsessed..
made with organic linen..candy striped canvas from ikea..and some really cheapo muslin..
only found at good ol walmart.{honestly the only thing i brave the store for..}
..ok and their Jasmin rice.thanks miss deider.

prepped+made the Christmas caroling garland last year with my BFF mary..
check out how hers turned out..super cute. i opted for the rustic twine..she did it with red+white bakers YARN.
just zigzag stitch thru the tops of your letters..

i dont have a ruffling foot..so i just pleated as i sewed..not too worried about
making it perfect cause i wAs watching modern family...plus..its garland right?
also seen here..@ the Christmas trunk show for TRUEBIRDS..
where i served these yummy macaroons+hotcocoa..

here's one of three macaroon recipes ive tried..these are a little more cakey
and only good the night you make em..

christmas..TAMALES!

2011-01-15T00:31:00.000-08:00

and aren't they cute?!

make some yummy pulled pork..any recipe you like..{or beef} wrap it in MASA..
{leave it to the real women to make this..its ground dried corn thats been soaked in lime juice+a few spices+some lardO}..SOAK your corn husks for a few hours prior to stuffing..

and make it messy..lay out at least 2 per tamale..and roll like a burrito and fold over the ends..securing with kitchen twine..
boil in a big pot+big batch of them for about 20ish minutes..
THANK YOU STEPH for walking me thru each step..even taking me to the Mexican Market!!

proud recipients..excuse these photos..taken from my phone..

christmas party desserts..you cant bring just ONE..

2011-01-03T19:37:00.001-08:00

so we made a trio..
my go to superduper easy lemon tartlets ..lemon curd.freshly whipped whipping cream. lemon zest.fresh sprig o'mint.berries.turbinado sugar.ready to party piecrust..

{yeah. i know.i know.when your makin 3 things..your ALLOWED to cheat.}
make the little tartlet shells in the morning..so if you have an emergency and half turn out..you have time to make some more....
baked these in my mini-cheesecake pan from WS..remove ASAP from the pan when they come outta the oven..careful..PIPING hOt.

mini flourless tortes..make sure you've got goo0OOood chocolate..
your guests will see right through your lame-o Hershey's box. so don't even dare.

PRETTY darn good Crème Brûlée

Crème Brûlée

1 vanilla bean
2+1/2 C. heavy cream
8 egg yolks
1/4 C. superfine sugar
..more fine sugar for on top..
**secret little addition..i like to spike it with a little hazelnut syrup..like a tablespoon or more..(add this when it is steeping..)

position rack in the center of the oven PREHEAT 300. in a saucepan start boiling your water+line a shallow baking pan with a small kitchen towel..

Using a paring knife, split the vanilla bean lengthwise down the middle and scrape the seeds into a saucepan. Add the CREAM, stir to mix and set the pan over medium-low heat. Warm the cream until BUBBLES form around the edges of the pan and steam begins to rise from the surface. Remove from the heat and set aside to steep, about 15 minutes.

In a large bowl, whisk together the EGG YOLKS, SALT and the 1/4 cup SUGAR until smooth and blended. Gradually add the cream to the egg mixture, whisking until blended about 5 min. Pour the custard through a fine-mesh sieve set over a bowl. Divide the custard among 12 MINI or 6ISH normal sized ramekins..and place in the prepared baking pan. Add BOILING WATER to fill the pan halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil and bake until the custard is just set around the edges, BUT STILL A LITTLE JIGGLY IN THE CENTER...20ish for the mini..35ish for the normal.{every stinkin oven is different..so you have to check on it like a sleepin baby.}

Transfer the ramekins to a wire rack and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 3 DAYS!!see why i make it all the time?? leftovers are so wonderful..cause if you have friends stop by you can be like..”oh could i whip up some Crème Brûlée for ya..?”..instant friendship.

Just before serving, sprinkle 1 Tbs. of the sugar evenly over each custard. Using a kitchen torch, melt the sugar in circular motions..place back in fridge to help reset..ready when you are..serve with berries and chocolate dipped mint.

ADVENT CALENDAR ACTIVITIES!!

2010-11-30T01:14:00.000-08:00

...so i decided to write up a few fun things we MUST do before the holiday hits..
just click and save to your desktop! ready to cut into strips and throw in those cute pockets.
enjoy!{and don't forget to thank me later}

its the..MOST..wONdeRFUL time ...of the year...!!

2010-11-11T01:14:00.000-08:00

some decor..
i rescued these musty old pages from an old book..

what to do with all those empty IZZE bottles..
my madre said this little cat was the same one she grew up with in the 60s..!

dont worry ma..this was only freshly brewed{root}BEER

the doughnut game:
do it in couples..and instead of tying your hands..
just hug your partner..this was BEYOND hilarious!!
the pictures were too graphic to post.

here are some awesome costume ideas for next year..
garden gnomes..crayons..waldos!!

and the winners are...
most offensive: snookie
cutest: cindy loohoo
UHmazing:dead bride
best teamwork: waldos
i got some random trophys and covered
them with cool labels..

my little chickees

2010-11-02T01:21:00.000-07:00

oliver looooved his costume and wore it for hours!
he didnt mind the feathers..as long as he had his binki..

they were havin a little chat about not eating the feathers.
we got papa to dress up at colonel sanders!! we heart papa.

beckham told everyone.."i don liiike my costume..i juss liiike candy.."

thanks rach for a spooki ol' time!

old DANISH chairs..RECOVERED!

2010-11-01T22:39:00.000-07:00

waiting for the perfect fabric..was killin me.. and my poor hubs.
all six of these were neatly stacked..(amongst many other things) in my garage

ahhh...so nice to have you guys out to party with.
still waiting for the most fabulous fuchsia..but this will have to do.for now.
my couch is this exact yellow..cute..but im not one for matchy..

day at the office::

2010-10-27T01:07:00.000-07:00

anyone buy one of these for Halloween? these are a few of my favs..
cant believe i get to style wigs and do hair+makeup..ALL day.
we bust out about 20something looks..

2010-10-25T02:30:00.000-07:00

pipe book shelves for Mr. Beckham

::before::
brown burlap wall..coke crates.Beckhams framed masterpieces

such the helper.

love that the mr. started....and finished this project!

he whipped this out in a day..or less.i just made him wait a week
i had to retexture+paint the wall.nice and flat.before he could do anything..
dont worry..i was only 6mo prego.
next house..we are retexturing everywall.
BEFORE we move in.
i actually love doing it...its so relaxing..
its just the sanding part that kills ya..

probably want to see the AFTER huh...

2010-10-22T01:45:00.000-07:00

i want everything from this site..ugh.
boys are so cool.

2010-10-22T01:21:00.000-07:00

its HALLOWeeeeeeen!

i made a paper wreath with my dearest friend mary..shes quite contrary.

..and brewed up some spooky potions+poisons

2010-10-22T00:49:00.000-07:00

whatcha for halloween?
check out some awesome hair+makeup i did..
can be seen at Target.Party City.Walmart.ToysRus.Disney..

normal day on the job..
wanna see more? click here..

..Mary's biRtHd@y on the bEaCH..

2010-10-21T14:33:00.000-07:00

whats for dinner:
lemon arugala salad
kalamata olive+rosemary focaccia
roasted butternut squash+pesto lasagna
chocolate mousse mini cakes

those paper straws are pathetic..except for the first 3 sips.. ..magical.

boys doing their washboard thing

we look a little re-rE..
HAPPY 29TH dear ..mArY QUITE CONTraRY..

followed by a nice long walk along the beach

2010-10-10T01:21:00.000-07:00

..TRUE BIRDS trunk show..
dont worry..we'll have another in november

cinnamon rolls.banana cakes.chocolate chip coffee cookies.
lemon creme puffs.fudgey brownies.mmmmMmm
and a headband or two.

2010-10-07T00:32:00.000-07:00

planning a Halloween party...our favorite time of year!!!

...its....BANANAS..

2010-09-27T23:14:00.000-07:00

alright..alright.. i'll hand it over. got this recipe from a girlfriends grandma.
{so you know its gooood} definitley a crowd pleaser..
and for those with hubbies who cant take another chocolate dessert??
well... here it is..
find the recipe here..or under sucre..

this super moist cake is cooked at a really low temp of 275 for about 45ish minutes
(thats 2 rounds..) but about an hourish for a bundt.

i changed the frosting recipe up a bit.. i add a little almond extract
+in addition to the vanilla it asks for. it gives it the..
"what the heck is in this besides crack"-extra bit.
if you don't have almond..my other go to secret ingredient..was hazelnut syrup.

there ya have it.

oh..and ps..happy birthday to my super sweet sister in law Rachel.

whats up..for the summer..

2010-09-25T15:07:00.000-07:00

weddings..

lots of anthropologie inspired looks..

photoshoots...
fun brands..even a carters/eddie bauer ad for mr. Oliver

2010-09-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

...new baby...!

just hours old in this shot

first day back..

Mr. Oliver Bennett
born in 8 minutes..once i got to the hospital
..seriously it was something out of a movie
...screaming for HELP down the hallways..
he made it.and a healthy7.4oz.

wow..im so super lame..

2010-05-05T00:51:00.000-07:00

so i swear Ive been a busy bee..updates to follow soon..

but if you want..follow me here..or even here.. i update these WAY more..

((any guesses on who this is...!?...TOTALLY random..any LOST fans out there?))

finishing up a few of last years+this years resolutions..just need to upload pics..
sew new pillows
restart the garden
(20 something exotic tomato plants..and counting..!!)
finish bird quilt
make a tutu or two
updating my website..
serious dinner party group
make puff pastry
homemade yogurt
purchase a grass fed cow-and split it..
(any takers?)
start sprouting.wooh!
purrrrge.
style someone fabulous..
convince my husband to buy me a grill.

a little early for christmas...(or late..)

2010-03-03T16:08:00.000-08:00

Christmas advent calendar..holidays totally sneak up on me..around october i get antsy to get fun ideas done..and never get on doin them..too much holiday anxiety..

hung this by a squiggly branch and then tied each side by a red and white striped fat ribbon.

2009 CHRISTMAS CARDS..

2010-02-10T08:56:00.000-08:00

this is the only one that will download...boo. see more..HERE!

rainy days: French onion soup!!

2010-01-27T01:33:00.000-08:00

mmmm toasty garlic toasts with lots of fancy cheeses and sage..

recipe here.. but...i add fresh sage the last 10 min..do half the amount of onions..
{i like it more brothy} and i use white wine and brandy..sprinkle in some fontina if you have it..

For you women, here is something to ponder:

2010-01-21T09:26:00.000-08:00

just read this on my girlfriends blog..

For you women, here is something to ponder:

If I were Satan and wanted to destroy a society, I think I would stage a full-blown blitz on women. I would keep them so distraught and distracted that they would never find the calming strength and serenity for which their [gender] has always been known.

Satan has effectively done that, catching us in the crunch of trying to be superhuman instead of striving to reach our unique, God-given potential within such diversity. He tauntingly teases us that if we don’t have it all—fame, fortune, families, and fun, and have it all the time—we have been short-changed and are second-class citizens in the race of life. As [women] we are struggling, our families are struggling, and our society is struggling. Drugs, teenage pregnancies, divorce, family violence, and suicide are some of the ever-increasing side effects of our collective life in the express lane.

Too many of us are struggling and suffering, too many are running faster than they have strength, expecting too much of themselves.

AND MY FAVORITE LINE--

...We must have the courage to be imperfect while striving for perfection.

read more here...

ps..here's a quick craft you can do while taking a homebody day..
click here for the tutorial

{ i made a couple for Christmas presents..for your hair, on a skinny belt, or a jacket}
made with grandma corkys vintage buttons..and wool felt

merry christmas! not too much baking here..but sewing..yes!

2010-01-18T14:26:00.000-08:00

one day i'll have a bunch of little beckhams running around..
and i'll make em all matching Christmas jammies.
{B for Beckham and L for Lucy}

...dinner party on top of the town!

2009-12-11T14:21:00.000-08:00

we all contributed something. pasta.drinks.bread.dessert.flowers
i made a puff pastry tart with roasted raspberrys + lemon
+mango lemonade

A GATHERING OF SUPERHEROES!!!

2009-12-11T13:55:00.000-08:00

todd's 30th birthday!
{in spirit of keeping him young..}

vintage comics..erased the headlines for guests to write
a funny word or two for todd

the save the date:went out right before halloween..
for post holiday sales!!

actual pictures to come..hired a photographer for this bash.

idea box...

2009-11-18T01:41:00.000-08:00

so i finally made this alphabet pillow for beckham..
he loves to sing his awadees but i'm not sure he can
recognize them. this way he can learn them..and work on his buttoning skills.

not food...but just something i finally whipped up from the dusty idea box..
red ticking stripe fabric.grandmas vintage button collection.assortment of tira's $$ whool felt

2009-11-09T01:16:00.000-08:00

a baby.... SPRINKLE!
everything sweet and mini.
just like kat.{hot mama huh!!?}

pumpkin-gingersnap cheesecakes

IZZZZn't Katrina lookin Fabulous!!!
IZZZZn't Katrina lookin hot!!
IZZZZn't she glowing!!

meringue cookies..french lemonberry galettes..coconut macaroons..
real peanut butter cups..caramel macchiato cupcakes..
chocolate mousse browie bites..citrus glazed cinnamon buns

we threw it @ katrina's home..so we could all view her adorable-land of nod worthy nursery
..and because its so beautiful and elegant.

RYDER's precious nursery.
doesn't this look like something right out of a magazine??
amazing amazing job kat!! we loved every detail.

don't forget your favor!
{we set these inside a clear umbrella}

spooky decorations...

2009-11-09T00:20:00.000-08:00

cute painting huh!! my dear friend tira made it for me last year.

its a sprinkle..

2009-10-27T15:24:00.000-07:00

waiting on images..hoping to post soon!

everything was a "sprinkle size" so ...mini..
these were little lemonberry galettes..mmmmm!
my fav..sweet and tart!
this image won't turn around..not sure why..

last year for halloween...{since this year is still in the works..}

2009-10-16T01:05:00.000-07:00

SUBSTANCES:poison.toxin.cyanide.alcohol.acid.{o.k. fine..it was really limeaid.fruit punch and lemonade..w/food coloring.}wow that cyanide was a hit!
GRUB:snickerdoodles..with cinnamon-pumpkin spice stuffed in witches broom bags.
..spinach-cream cheese bats..rolled in poppy seeds..topped with green olives & black corn chips.
{i love that you can totally get away with making super cheesy snacks @ halloween..}
thanks MOM for the bat idea i stole from you years ago!

.pumpkin cakes.

2009-10-16T00:53:00.000-07:00

my madre gave me this pan from williams-sonoma a few years back..and its only tradition.. so instead of making our pumpkin chocolate chip cakes...we did chocolate with cocoa-cream cheese mousse as the filling and kahlua-ganache for dramatic effect.. almost as good as my dear friend tommi's homemade oreos..mmmmmmmMmm

FLASHBACK::beckham's 1st birthday!

2009-10-10T21:56:00.000-07:00

what's a carnival without hot dogs.nachos.giant pickles.watermelon.corn or licorice?

homemade vanilla cakes and smooth hazelnut frosting
..with real crushed up hazelnuts!
jimmies and circus sprinkles of course.
thanks tira for making the #1 cookies!
such a hit.and gone in seconds!
so here are the games:we hung lines of twine from tree to tree
and draped different polk.a.dotted fabric for the backdrops for the games.
each had its own spot and corresponding sign.
go fish!

i put my brother in charge of attaching silly prizes
{parachute men.sparkly rings.glitter pencils.noise makers}
to the ends of the fishing poles
{made from twigs..twine..and clothespins}

here is beckham's attempt. wonder what he'll get!
he just wanted the clothespin.
ball toss bonanza!
we lined up 36 clear cups..filled all with water..only some had goldfish in them.
if you tossed your ball into a fish one...hooray! you win a fish!
thanks mike and skyler for taking the trip to get all 25 of these babies!!

{and not to mention..getting them all individually wrapped! ha.}
snow cone zone!
look how yummy. nice and refreshing on such a warm day!

so i'm a total fibber. the extension cord was just maybe 10 yards too short.
but at least the sign was cute..right!? yeah. we tried.face painting!

homemade circus animal crackers!
little giraffe.tigers.elephants.lions and even seals!
how fun is that! thank you williams-sonoma.
what will you think of next.

..homemade carmel corn..corn syrup+vanilla+butter+brown sugar.mMmm and a little baking soda.

thanks sky for helping me stay awake in the wee

hours of the morning to finish!

what's a circus without silly faces and clown noses!

hooray! look at me. i'm wearing my birthday crown
...and my birthday suit!

..its official..

2009-09-20T23:43:00.000-07:00

after much{mostly nice}harassment..
i'm back!
so i'll be recapping the past..i dont know..6 months or so..?
..i've nailed down a fool-proof fresh pasta..{took me 6 tries}
..mastered the green machine..
..found the best pizza dough substituters..{for lazy-{but better than boboli} nights}
..thrown a few showers..
..quite a few 30th's..
..launched my website..
..and have gotten to bed by midnight..

ITS A ZOO..beckham turned 2!

2009-09-20T15:31:00.000-07:00

we all met @ the zoo..and then headed back for cake and more fun.

safari lunch provided+ animal activity book.crayons.
animal masks.trail mix.animal crackers. pb&h.
ok..& an embroidered-elephant|giraffe bag.

sandwiches.banana.animal crackers.trail mix

{beckham in his lion pose}

..chunky monkey.. banana cakes+thick ganache

..elephant stomp..double chocolate+peanut butter

..crocodile bites..tangy lime

GATORade+beverages

best of beck streamers..flags..and animal alphabet

becks favorite toy to date: the NERF gun

.mr. beckham's #2 birthday..today!

2009-07-11T03:58:00.000-07:00

here is the invite.. party is today.. promise to post pics soon.
very simple.modern.and definitely some animal print.

SPOON ME!

2009-06-22T22:30:00.000-07:00

Arctic Zero Chocolate Peanut Butter All Natural Frozen Dessert
PER SERVING (1/2 cup): 32 calories, 0g fat, 9mg sodium, 11g carbs, 0g fiber, 9g sugars, 4g protein -- POINTS® value 1*

k..you ready???. An ENTIRE PINT of this has 128 calories. Yes, THE ENTIRE PINT. 128 calories. That's what this stuff is all about...ladies.

If you're the girl who sits in front of the TV with an entire carton of ice cream and goes to town...this is for you. It's made mostly of whey protein and a special blend of natural sugars that has way (or should i say, whey) fewer calories and impact carbs than regular sugar. (Impact carbs are the ones your body actually processes.)

It comes in 3 flavors, but the Chocolate Peanut Butter is the best for straight-from-the-carton spooning. beckham loves the maple-Vanilla...we use it as a base for smoothies and shakes...MAKE a SHAKE momah!-beck

Find it in select stores (mostly in CA) or just order online .

beckham and i have it almost every morning...yep! for breakfast! well..along with our spinach-ham & cheese scrambles.. i don't normally spoon feed the mr. with ice cream...but with arctic zero...

there is ZERO guilt! we cant get enough of the chocolate peanut butter..

go on... get your own!

ps... this is my brother's company!!...and i did the hair+makeup for the photoshoot..!

sneaker peeker..

2009-06-16T01:45:00.000-07:00

..just a tease..a few shots from the last shower Bentley and i did.

more to come+recipes...promise!

this is the coveted flourless torte..

in the middle of planning+the sending out of invites:
two 30th birthdays,1 zoo party, another baby shower,
and hmmm..something else..
{all within the next 3 weeks.. its party season.}

shhhh.. its a surprise..

2009-06-14T21:21:00.000-07:00

my brother turned the big 3o!
k..back in january..but i think it turned out cute..take a look!
we stayed in a friends cabin in big bear.so fun and intimate.

..birthday breakfast for 2..

2009-05-15T13:26:00.000-07:00

our dear friends heather + elisa decided to have their birthday on the same day..

so we threw them a last minute-brunch!

whats on the menu::crepes::berry delight.bananarama-with blintz creme

and brown sugar.lemon creme.and nutella a la bella::

mini frittata 's::sundried tomato+pesto...ham+pepperjack
{baked in 8 minutes..in mini muffin tin..}
katrina brought cute mini bagels+spreads..we set out
the toaster for a DIY toasting station.

kat+tira servin up the raspberry hot chocolate

{my mama's trick..just add raspberry syrup+dark chocolate to the mix}

100% attendance. thanks ladies!

.Easter Cakes.

2009-04-19T12:06:00.000-07:00

mmmm...
carrot.chocolate.pound

..and yep. thats some serious cream cheese-amaretto frosting.

. . . remember?? last easter we made this yumminess..

2009-04-11T20:44:00.000-07:00

carrots.golden raisins.carrot puree.toasted coconut.yum

what's easter w/o some carrot cake!normally..i'm not a fan of carrot cake.there are too many funky textures going on..and who knows what your really eating.so our friends made this cake one night from Cooking Light magazine. wow. super moist and stays fresh for days.
hey. i made it sunday and i'm still savoring each last piece.
well we doubled it the first time and put it in a bundt pan.because of the crust to cake ratio..i'd say do the bundt version. but the crunch of the outsides were still yummy.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

so.... i'll be making this again..but adding a
little amaretto extract to the frosting..
and using coconut flakes instead..
also a lime-citrus pound cake with berry compote..
and a chocolate mint-cake-creation...{not sure yet..}
any ideas are greatly appreciated!
hey. i have to do dessert for 30!
better be good.

remember THIS?? {Mrs. Trunchbull's chocolate cake}

2009-04-10T21:37:00.000-07:00

7 layers of heaven. 2 layers of chocolate cake
2 layers of brownie fudge.2 layers of
chocolate mousse..and a layer of thick
dark chocolate ganache.
of course we sneaked in a layer of skor bits
..and chocolate shavings..
yummy @ room temperature..even better chilled.
thanks rachel for turning another year older!
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

a dear blogger-friend hunted me
down and asked for the
step-by-step how-tos for this cake..

Luciene it looks fabulous. great job!

2009-04-05T23:10:00.000-07:00

..banana cakes+caramel buttercream..
..citrus cakes+lemon curd swirled vanilla cream..
..chocolate mint cakes+thick ganache

{much more exciting than last year.}

very simple.garden themed.we'll GROW together as sisters in Zion..
piggy-backing the super bowl idea...i cut the sod strips down the middle-using them as mini runners.decorated with rows of fresh herbs terra cotta and white ceramic pots.

my dear friend Elisa...created these wild flower seed packets
...which even matched the invites.

.chipotle CHEDDAR biscuits.

2009-04-05T23:03:00.000-07:00

mmmm...we liked these. the first batch of these i made...i didn't have the chipotle powder...so i ground up some dried chipotle peppers..and sprinkled them through...i finally splurged and split the jar with my sis.much easier..and spicer!...whoa!
make these tonight!

good mornin'

2009-03-23T08:12:00.000-07:00

maple glaze.lots of yummy topping to go around.super moist.yum!
get it here.and here. i heart ina. we are so BFF.

::and the winner goes to::

2009-03-21T10:48:00.000-07:00

AMBER:: of chocolate and mangos
..when no one understands you..chocolate is there..

thank you for all the fabulous comments..don't worry..
more treats and giveaaways to come!
happy spring!

dutch tulip fields..don't you just want to frolic in them

1 year!! we've made it!

2009-03-20T07:54:00.000-07:00

one day left :: post a comment for our super sweet $25 shopping spree!!

courtesy of favor affair.

drum roll please..........1ST GIVEAWAY!!

2009-03-13T01:28:00.000-07:00

1 WEEK. that's all you get.
.comment.
about your favorite most likely late post.. and you'll get this!!
$25.oo shopping spree @ favor affair.

Favor Affair has fun packaging for favors..
monogrammed bags and super cute placeholders.

i really want the wooden Chinese fans..not sure what for...
but i SO need them.