This and That

M got her first haircut(s) last week.  First, I had an impulsive moment while she was brushing her teeth and 'neatened' up some of the ends.  On Sunday, beloved Auntie D did a wonderful job cleaning things up and our girl now has a fresh bob.  When we visit R's family there is a high quotient of paparazzi (M is Angelina, of course) - which was full-on during the salon session.  There was so much going on I'm not sure M was even fully aware of what was happening, which might have been for the best... but it didn't hurt that Auntie D is a professional...  The cut is so sassy and perfect for Ms. M that I hardly spent a moment mourning the growing up of our baby.

The before:

The after:

Cute top, no?  You might be seeing many more in this style.  I made it!  Finally a pattern easy enough to bang out in an evening (or two depending on what else is going on) AND with a sweet fit.  The pattern is from Heidi and Finn (purchased 'here') and aside from a few minor typos within the instructions I couldn't be happier with the experience, start to finish.

I had been using a similar pattern (seen in action, below) but wasn't as happy with the finished product - though amazingly these early dresses still fit her (like shirts now - I'll get some pictures of that soon).  

can't believe this is the same baby!

Also on the making front, I've (re) discovered the Tassajara Bread Book.  This book was (and is) a bible of sorts to my mother for making bread.  My wham bam Bittman food processor method doesn't have much in common with the whole body/spirit approach of bread making described in Tassajara but I've already found some other recipes I love.  In particular the Haver Cookies.  Fruit juice sweetened and very easy to make.  And - loved by M and friends!

1/2 cup currants or rasins

1 1/4 cup rolled oats

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons corn oil (coconut oil sub might be nice)

1/2 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 cup unbleached white flour

5 - 7 tablespoons apple juice

(Makes about 24

Preheat oven to 350)

Soak rasins in water for 1/2 hour.  Combine oats, cinnamon and salt.  Add oil, stir thoroughly and set aside.  Mix flours and juice.  Add the oat mixture and then the drained raisins.  If the mixture does not hold together add extra teaspoons of oil or juice until it does.

Shape the mixture into a big ball and place it on a large greased baking sheet.  Roll the dough with a heavy rolling pin into a large rectangle 1/4 inch thick.  Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into squares or triangles.  

Bake the Havers at 350 for 20 - 30 minutes.  Do not brown.  Let cool and remove from pan.  Store in a tin.

yum