princessparty
Jul 3

past the princess stage . . . self proclaimed tomboy

A few weeks ago my daughter celebrated her birthday.  She is now officially past the princess stage and recently declared herself a “tomboy.”  Ironically, when I was around her age I also made the same proclamation. So what do you… Continue reading »

cherrycreamcheese
Jun 19

more cherries and a local classic

I am sad to say that the cherries we picked from Brentwood are long gone, but happy that they were used in some yummy baked treats!  I did make a cherry upside-down cake that was fabulous, but unfortunately the “model”… Continue reading »

cherry-clafoutis
Jun 4

cherry clafoutis . . . super easy!

Our family made the annual trek to Brentwood (Contra Costa County) for cherry picking (see my last year’s post, got cherries?!, and my love-hate relationship with “pops”).  This year we planned to hit our usual farm, Pease Ranch, but unfortunately… Continue reading »

purple_ombre
May 23

celebrating an anniversary, eclipse, and ombre

This past Sunday was a day of celebration!  In California, we were able to view a rare annular solar eclipse!  Making this day even more special–my husband and I celebrated our 12th wedding anniversary–with a purple ombre cake.  How fitting… Continue reading »

straw_scone2
May 11

thank you to our teachers!

This week, May 7-11, is Teacher Appreciation Week! My daughter’s Classroom Moms planned some great ways to show our appreciation.  Earlier in the week the kids wrote thank you notes, brought in a piece of fruit each for a fruit basket,… Continue reading »

2012foodblooger_bwob_sf-badge2
Apr 25

san francisco’s food blogger bake sale . . . share our strength

Last year I was humbled to participate in the San Francisco’s Food Blogger Bake Sale and bake for a cause that is close to my heart–ending childhood hunger in America.  This year I continue to support the Share Our Strength… Continue reading »

rainbow_fluff
Apr 23

somewhere over the rainbow . . .with a few clouds

Last year, I did a rainbow themed party for my ai daughter.  Conceptually it was a grand idea.  Realistically, much harder to do than I imagined.  ROY G BIV=A LOT OF LAYERS OF COLOR TO BAKE.  From my experience last… Continue reading »

bacon_egg
Apr 9

eggs and bacon . . . huh?

Happy Easter and Happy Spring!  Wondering what to do with leftover eggs that weren’t boiled for the kiddies to color?  This is probably ailovebaking’s first savory post–eggs and bacon cupcakes!  I know last year I promised more simple easy recipes and… Continue reading »

lavender_vanilla_polvoron
Apr 4

filipino polvorons . . . not your typical flavors

Have you ever made something and you weren’t quite sure if you liked it or hated it?  Or do you think “messing” with a classic just shouldn’t be done?  Or does experimenting lead to new and inventive creations?  And why… Continue reading »

guinness_choco_featured
Mar 19

the perfect remedy for the day or week after st. patrick’s day

I am not a big beer or stout fan.  I love the frou frou girly drinks . . . and the occasional rum and coke!  Back in February, I picked up a six-pack of Guinness to make cupcakes for my… Continue reading »