Urban Suburban Mommy

Monthly Archives: December 2015

Champagne goes good with what…

Posted on by Posted in Urban Suburban Mommy .

So 2015 was a great year and we are truly blessed!  It’s time to ring in 2016 and we thought we would have some fun with our last post of the year. We are reaching out to you to join us in this exercise – please comment and share. Use the hashtag #NYEUSM.

We are going to throw out some words relating to new year’s celebrations and we want you to answer with the first thing that comes to your mind – be silly, get creative…here goes!  We included our suggestions and let’s hear yours!

WHAT GOES GOOD WITH….

CHAMPAGNE = caviar, orange juice, Alkaseltzer, break milk – your turn!

HIGH HEELS= Band Aids – your turn!

NOISEMAKERS = Advil – your turn!

CONFETTI = Not my house

NEW YEAR’S KISS = pregnancy test

Happy New Year!  We wish you nothing but the best.

Love the Urban Suburban Mommies. xo

 

31369-NYM42C

 

 

 

10 questions with a surrogate mother

Posted on by Posted in 10 Questions With .

They want a baby but need someone to do the gestating. A surrogate is able to do that. But it’s a strange scenario, lending out your womb, perhaps donating your eggs, too. We caught up with mother of two and two-time surrogate, Samantha, from York, Pennsylvania, to ask the questions you know you want to know about being a surrogate.

1. What were your reasons for becoming a surrogate?

I had wanted to be a surrogate since nursing school (2001), however I wanted to be sure my family was complete before I looked into doing it. The absolute joy my children give is something I have been honored to give to someone else.

2. How many surro-babies have you had?

I’ve completed a surrogacy with 1 child and I’m currently pregnant with my second surrogacy – possibly twins! It’s still early on, but well on the way.

3. How can you go about finding a family to hire you?

Some surrogates go “indy” – independent – where they have found a couple outside of an agency. I was indy my first time and used an agency this time.

4. Do you have to go through a lot of screening?

Yes, LOTS!  You must have a recent full check up, screened for STDS and have a psych evaluation completed before beginning the process.

5. What is the financial compensation – is it just money or are there other benefits? Are you paid for each implantation or only for a viable pregnancy? 

Most intended parents do send other gifts like gift baskets, some will have their surrogate go for massages, mani/pedis. There is a payment for the embryo transfer which can vary and is agreed upon during the contract phase. The next payment is after a positive blood pregnancy test and monthly payments start after that.

6. Do you donate your eggs or just rent out your uterus? Is the compensation a lot higher if they use your eggs? Can they ask you to carry multiples or is it a singleton every time (and does the rate go up if twins happen?)

I personally cannot use my eggs due to genetic reasons, but I can carry.

There are 2 types of surrogates. Traditional Surrogates (TS) and Gestational Surrogates (GS) or Gestational Carriers (GC). TS is where they use the surrogate’s egg and GS or GC are carriers with no genetic relation to the baby.

During the matching phase they will include in your profile whether you are willing to carry twins or only a singleton. The intended parents can choose you if they are looking for someone to carry twins. That rate is normally only a couple thousand more – it’s not double, like a lot of people assume it is.

According to Circle Surrogacy, the rate a surrogate GS can expect is around $25,000 to $30,000 base fee plus up to $25,000 in additional compensation. It depends on state, whether the surrogate is a first-timer, as experienced surrogates are paid more. Surrogacy America places the fees slightly higher, at $40,000 to $50,000 plus expenses, though Samantha explains that this fee may only be for somewhere like California, where rates are at a premium.

There are other variables besides multiples that affect the cost – C-section, egg donation, lost wages, travel expenses, clothing allowance, life insurance and other elements can be part of the payment and included in the expenses paid by the intended parents. These are defined in the contract between surrogate and intended parents.

In Canada, surrogacy is priced out differently and the breakdown gives a range of $18,000 to $45,000+ through Surrogacy in Canada.

7. Are there a lot of limitations on your lifestyle when you surro? Sex? Activities? Foods? Can they ask you to do yoga or take pre-natals or do you have to take other meds? 

Some intended parents want things very strict, it is stipulated in the contract. My first time, the parents asked that I limit fast food – not a big deal for me. If you are in a relationship there are timeframes where you are not allowed to have sex because of the risk of you getting pregnant. Otherwise it’s ok, unless your OBGYN has reasons to medically limit sex.  Pre-natals are a must do, and there are a good bit of other meds. They take over your cycle by meds. There are injections and other meds that start before the transfer then continue until around 10 weeks of the pregnancy. These are to help ensure that the body is ready and that the pregnancy takes hold after the transfer.

8. Does the surro-family want to be involved with your pregnancy throughout for the experience? Be there for the delivery? Is the baby with you for any length of time after delivery? Breast feeding?

Some are more involved then others – distance can be a big factor so it means lots of phone interaction. Most parents will come into the area towards the end of the pregnancy. My intended parents were in the room for delivery and the intended parents are planning on it for this time.  Typically, once born, the baby is with the parents, but they do allow the surrogate – and sometimes family – in to hold and visit.  Breastfeeding is very uncommon because of the bonding and possible problems that can happen.  Some surros will pump for the baby.

9. How do your other kids handle the situation of mommy carrying a baby but them not getting a brother or sister out of it?

I explained to my kids in as simple terms as I could what was going on, and that it was not my baby.  This time they understand a little more being 9 and 7.

10. Do you want to have any connection with the baby/family after? Or is it like a closed adoption? Is it hard to give up or can you stay unattached because you know you’re doing the pregnancy, not having your own child?

This depends on distance as well. I asked for my family to be closer this time for that reason – and that, because my labor could go quickly, so in case I deliver early, they would hopefully make it in time. I get to see pictures of my first surro-baby, but they are 8 hours away, so it makes it hard to just stop by. There is some detachment knowing its not my child, but I do happily go back to sleeping all night after delivery 🙂

Our 2016 anti-resolutions

Posted on by Posted in Urban Suburban Mommy .

We’ve agreed, we don’t do new year’s resolutions because about 5 minutes later they’ve been broken. Resolutions are a recipe for failure, a way to start the year by putting unrealistic pressure on yourself, and let’s face it, after having the kids home for two weeks, having spent much more than usual on gifts, entertaining and parties – plus outfits for all those occasions – now isn’t the time to come down on yourself for not weighing in at the perfect number, not being the perfect parent, not being… Perfect, period.

Suburban Mommy Michelle says:

I prefer to set goals for the new year. I say them out loud so they are real and tangible. I usually ask my friends and husband to do the same. 99% of the time I achieve these goals – which is pretty exciting. It’s about setting your eye on the prize, developing your mantra for the year – “Setting your intention” as my yoga teacher would say.

It works.

Here are my personal New Year’s Goals:

1. Be less wasteful: I really want to focus on buying less so I don’t have to throw out things like spoiled produce from the fridge.

2. Get in shape:  I am not going to say I want to be a size 2, because that isn’t realistic, but it is important for me to get back in shape because I want to feel fit and healthy. Both my boys are solid and I need the physical strength for them. I would like my pre-baby body back – for me!

3. Save: It’s time to put more money in the bank (on a regular and frequent basis). There are so many things to save for – RRSP’s, RESP’s, Rainy Day Fund, Travel Fund….(that’s a whole other blog post)

Urban Mommy Elisa says:

Goals are aspirational. The success is in working towards them, not reaching them. Looking at what you can work on is healthy, and there’s no reason you can’t take time to change for the better. Mine are:

1. Creating more time for family: I’ve got a hectic schedule. I’ve never been good at time management, but I’m seeing the downside to that – so it’s time to take the wheel on that one and make it work better.

2. Screen-free time: I’m a self-confessed digital junkie. After trying to put my phone away and leave it away over Christmas, I’ve realized just how many times a day – while NOT working – I look at a phone, tablet or computer. I need to create more screen-free time during the evenings and weekends.

3. Let go: My friends knew me as a laid-back and easy going person. Motherhood has all but snuffed most of my laissez faire. I live like there’s a catastrophe waiting to happen on my watch, and it’s got to stop. Or at least I’ve got to work on it, which is more realistic.

Baby steps.

We have written them down and shared them (I was going to just ditto Michelle’s 3, but decided to take the first step and say mine out loud!) – now what are your goals – we would love to hear!

Last minute gift ideas? Here’s mama’s wish list

Posted on by Posted in Mommy Approved .

Here it is ladies (and savvy gentlemen), My “Mama’s wish list for 2015” so if you’ve got some last-minute shopping to do for that special mama in your life – or want to drop hints to him for that last special gift – you’ll want to read on for some inspiration!

These are the not-so-ordinary gift ideas that will break that mundane routine we sometimes seem to fall into. When used correctly, they will lead to intimate moments filled with enhanced details that will turn into lasting memories with your special someone. 

1.Vinyl:  There is something truly romantic about the sound of a needle making its way around a record. Make a list of your favorite contemporary or classical musicians.  Start a new tradition and begin to build a carefully curated collection of vinyl that your partner surprises you with each holiday season.

2. Wool or Cashmere Blanket:  There is no better way to spend the holidays – once the children are in bed – than to curl up under a fine cashmere or wool blanket with your love. It’s all about romance during the holiday season, so cozy up with a bottle of bubbly, turn on your favorite Christmas flick, and treat your skin to this soft sensation. Who knows where it could lead 😉

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Art:  Art is such a special and personal gift to receive.  It is much more than a mere material possession. This will inspire thought, emotion, and conversation for all who come through your home. The eternal essence of bringing people together. Cover your walls with lasting memories from the holidays that your sweetheart surprises you with.

4. The Experience of an adventure:  I am a huge fan of giving and receiving the gift of an adventure.  It’s all about an incredible experience that will create memories that will last a lifetime.  For me an exciting adventure away would be heading to Big Sur, camping and surfing with my partner and roasting marshmallow after a long day of exploring the land.  What’s yours?

5. Constellation:  There are many wonderful constellation books out there for the beginner or advance star gazer. (Yes, we know there’s an app for that, but this is the kind of beautiful book that will get some milage.) With the hustle and bustle of our day to day lives, we often forget that falling in love has no end. Take time to be out in nature when the sun goes down, grab your cashmere blanket and your partners hand, as you gaze upon the stars and share each other’s stories. This will lead to laughter and kisses, and who knows, you may discover something new.

 

6.****** Bonus…..Tantric love oils….well we don’t need an explanation for this one, now do we!

AlissiaAlissia Marciano is an international fashion and wardrobe stylist, as well as, an on-air celebrity fashion host. Currently based in Los Angeles, she has worked and forged her talent around the world in such cities as Paris, New York, Vancouver, and Toronto. From guest appearances on Rachael Ray, to the countdown to the Oscars on the red carpet with E!, and co-hosting Look A Like and Sexy Girl,  Alissia is a prominent figure in the fashion industry and her success has earned her the reputation of a highly sought after international fashion and celebrity stylist. Beyond fashion and music, Alissia’s portfolio includes an extensive list of advertising clients including Diesel, ESPN, Nike, Acura, Orbit, and CAT. Her eclectic mix of femininity and rock n’ roll has graced the pages of such publications as L’Uomo Vogue, Neo 2 (Spain), Entertainment Weekly, New York Moves, Wonderland (Japan), The National (UAE) and Filler to name a few. In addition to her work in the industry, Alissia has two beautiful boys with whom she shares many wonderful adventures and creates lasting memories with, surfing and skateboarding being two of their favorite activities.

Star Wars: The force awakens – mama approved for older kids

Posted on by Posted in Mommy Approved .

episode VII star wars the force awakens posterI don’t exactly know how many discussions I’ve had about Star Wars: The Force Awakens, but it’s a lot. Like, A LOT. “Have you seen it?” “Didi you take the kids?” “Did you love it?” And I can honestly say, J.J. Abrams, you blew my mind.

My husband is a huge Star Wars superfan. His tattoo doesn’t lie. So when the release date for presales came, he harassed me into tickets for the first opportunity we could see it. Of course, that meant prime-time, 1.45 pm at the best screen in the city. It was a 3D, DBOX, UltraAVX, ATMOS experience. (I’m not sure what all of those mean, but the seats jostled us, the sound was incredible and the Millennium Falcon seemed to warp right at us!)

The movie is a bit violent for the littles. There are some scenes that could be  a little bit terrifying for the sensitive kid. I’m really not entirely sure that it was appropriate for my 5 and 7 year old boys to go see it, but it was never open for discussion. The superfan had them watch the first 6 Star Wars movies – sequentially – for the day that rivalled Christmas in its excitement and intensity in our house: The release of episode VII, Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The Kylo Ren and First Order Troopers (Storm Troopers) 3-D glasses were the best.

First Order Trooper 3-D glasses

First Order Trooper 3D glasses

Kylo Ren 3-D glasses

Kylo Ren 3D glasses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Star Wars Day (or December 19th, as you might know it) my husband had to work. He knew a few days before, and it was like someone had smashed the Christmas tree and his eggnog had curdled. Theatres were sold out. There were no great options left. But he insisted I take the boys. They needed to see it! One of our friends came with – it was a special day for him, he recalled in ’77 how his dad had taken him to see the original Star Wars. I realized then and there, it wasn’t just a movie, this was a memory, a rite of passage, an important moment for my boys.

And this is something only us 40-something parents will understand. We were the youngest group to be around to experience the original release in ’77. There may be younger superfans, but if you were born after the mid 70s, you won’t remember it on the big screen in 1977 or Empire in 1980 or Return of the Jedi in 1983.

As a happy ending to my superfan/husband’s plight, what can only be known as a true Christmas/Star Wars miracle, I won tickets from a local radio station for a VIP viewing the evening of the 19th  – a time he was able to go. And he noted that he knew The Force would take care of him. (Huge shout-out to Fred & Mel at 102.1 The Edge, you saved Christmas/Star Wars Day!)

***edited: just had to share the salaries of the actors in this movie HERE.

Tiny love mobiles

Live clean wash

Posted on by Posted in Mommy Approved .
mom tested

I can’t even tell you how happy I am that I came across the “Live Clean” brand when I was perusing the baby aisle one day in my local pharmacy.  I absolutely love the brand  and the product is certainly true to it’s name. Want to know why?

mom tested

Here is the product overview:

A clinically tested, tearless formula that gently cleanses without drying. Leaving babies skin and hair feeling soft and nourished. Featuring a coconut based surfactant, Live Clean Baby is formulated free of harsh chemicals and preservatives. Made with purified water and enriched with certified organic botanicals of Chamomile, Lavender and Aloe, this unique formula rinses clean with a gentle scent to sooth baby. These baby products will make washing up a splash of fun!

Features:

  • 98% Plant ingredients
  • SLS free
  • Tear free
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Pediatrician tested

The shampoo & wash smells absolutely amazing and what’s great about it is that I can use it on both my baby and 3 year old.  In fact, my 3 year old has dry skin and a dry, peeling scalp.  Ever since I started using Live Clean Shampoo and wash on my toddler, my son is no longer suffering from dryness.  I was so impressed with the brand that I wanted to do some additional research about the company and its other offerings.  What I learned is that the product is Canadian – so thumbs up again.  I also like supporting homegrown products.  I also discovered that the Live Clean brand has a series of products including skincare and products for adults.

I have extremely dry hair, perhaps because it is colour treated.  I have had a hard time finding a moisturizing shampoo so I decided to try the Live Clear Keratin Oil Shampoo.  Again, I love the scent and so far my hair is pretty soft with washings which is a bit of a miracle.  I definitely will be exploring the rest of the product line and will share any other additional insights.  Live Clean is available at Walmart and other retailers.

Perfecting your holiday outfit – tips from celeb stylist Alissia Marciano

Posted on by Posted in The Best You .

Something in the way you move, it’s that ‘je ne sais quoi’. It’s the way you look, how you feel and what you exude.

You’re effortlessly chic.
breakfast at tiffanys - cocktail party
This is what we all want for the holiday season. Luckily for us Santa has come early. Here are some of my favorite tips and style choices when dressing for the season:
It may seems like you’re running around in circles when it comes to choosing that perfect cocktail dress. Of course you can play it safe and wear the LBD (little black dress), which still remains one of my staple pieces, but this season, go outside your comfort zone and try a little something different.
Why not experiment?
I am not talking about taking haute couture straight off the runway. I don’t expect you to wear it to your partner’s christmas party or next door neighbors shin dig, but let’s push the envelop a bit. I think it’s important to stand out at a cocktail party – of course for all the right reasons.
Here are a few tips to make shopping that much more enjoyable during this cocktail season. And yes, there are some LBD options for those of us that just can’t stray away from the dark side:)
Keep in mind fit, style and fabric.
Good tailoring/fit is essential when it comes to a cocktail dress. If the dress hugs the body then impeccable tailoring is a must. If it has a slight drape, then it must caress the body in all the right places. It’s key to know your correct dress size. If you find that you’re between sizes – or your baby body is still bouncing back, a tailor will be your best friend. A good tailor will nip and tuck the dress in all the right places.
The right silhouette is crucial in order to play up your best assets. Choose one, two or three of your favorite assets and play them up!! For me, it’s all about the the legs, so a shorter hemline always makes me feel sexier!
The festive season is all about sparkle, shine and color, so make sure to indulge in some of this season’s eye catching fabrics. Below I have chosen looks with different silhouettes, fabrics, embellishments, colors and hemlines – all while keeping in mind Fall/Winter 2015 trends. There should be something for every momma out there. Here are some of my favourites to make heads turn for all the right reasons this season!

Sparkle – choose the right silhouette when it comes to secquined embellished dresses.

Consider a Slip dress – something lingerie inspired

Try a softer pastel colour with red lips to make your grand entrance

Another must read: 

If you loved this article, you’ll love: Perfectly accessorized for holiday festivities – tips from celeb stylist Alissia Marciano

AlissiaAlissia Marciano is an international fashion and wardrobe stylist, as well as, an on-air celebrity fashion host. Currently based in Los Angeles, she has worked and forged her talent around the world in such cities as Paris, New York, Vancouver, and Toronto. From guest appearances on Rachael Ray, to the countdown to the Oscars on the red carpet with E!, and co-hosting Look A Like and Sexy Girl,  Alissia is a prominent figure in the fashion industry and her success has earned her the reputation of a highly sought after international fashion and celebrity stylist. Beyond fashion and music, Alissia’s portfolio includes an extensive list of advertising clients including Diesel, ESPN, Nike, Acura, Orbit, and CAT. Her eclectic mix of femininity and rock n’ roll has graced the pages of such publications as L’Uomo Vogue, Neo 2 (Spain), Entertainment Weekly, New York Moves, Wonderland (Japan), The National (UAE) and Filler to name a few. In addition to her work in the industry, Alissia has two beautiful boys with whom she shares many wonderful adventures and creates lasting memories with, surfing and skateboarding being two of their favorite activities.

 

Perfectly accessorized for holiday festivities – tips from celeb stylist Alissia Marciano

Posted on by Posted in The Best You .

Upping your style factor this cocktail party season can be as simple as adding the perfect finishing touches. Shoes, accessories, your signature sent and a bit of sparkle can take your outfit from playroom to va-va-voom!

I’ve always liked to show leg, and the cocktail dress lends well to that. Bearing in mind that it does get quite cold at night, it doesn’t mean that you have to drop hemlines. Sheer black or opaque tights are your go to when it comes to winter cocktail dressing. Wolford has many great options to choose from. Here are a few of my favorites.

Wolfords cashmere silk tights

Wolfords cashmere silk tights

Cara Tights with a sparkle

Cara Tights with a sparkle

a little cheeky with these stay up tights

A little cheeky with these stay up tights

Go luxe with Wolfords cashmere silk tights or glitz it up with Cara Tights, with a sparkle around the ankle and calf – or go a little ‘cheeky’ with these stay up tights

This isn’t the season to play it safe when it comes to heels. The higher the better when we want to ooze sex appeal. I can already hear the sighs. I have close stylish momma friends who simply refuse to wear heels due to the pain factor. The cocktail party, in my opinion, is the ONE exception. Trust me ladies, sometimes a little a pain goes a long way, especially here. To all the stylish mothers out there I challenge you to slip on a pair of high heels for at least one soiree (pack up the back-up flats ‘just in case’ if you must)

Check out these style that would make even SJP drool.

Christian Louboutin Glitter pump

Christian Louboutin Glitter pump

Aquazzura Pon Pon sandal

Aquazzura Pon Pon sandal

Saint Laurent Metallic ‘fetish’ ankle boot

Saint Laurent Metallic ‘fetish’ ankle boot

Christian Louboutin Black follies lace pump

Christian Louboutin Black follies lace pump

‘Tis the season to glam it up. Three words Sparkle, Sparkle, Sparkle. I gravitate towards large sparkly button earrings and long rhinestone shoulder dusters. If the dress is simple a large neckpiece is the go to accessory or an over the top jeweled cuff.
Alexis Bittar has some eye catching jewels for this holiday season. I also like to go vintage when it comes to my glitzy jewels and Carole Tanenbaum is one of my favorites!

Carole Tanenbaum tall bracelet

The last touch is a splash of your favorite perfume. For evenings out i like to dab on the classic Coco Chanel or Comme des Garcon Carnation. I think it’s important for a woman to have her own scent.

What’s yours?

Another must read: 

If you loved this article, you’ll love: Perfecting your holiday outfit – tips from celeb stylist Alissia Marciano

AlissiaAlissia Marciano is an international fashion and wardrobe stylist, as well as, an on-air celebrity fashion host. Currently based in Los Angeles, she has worked and forged her talent around the world in such cities as Paris, New York, Vancouver, and Toronto. From guest appearances on Rachael Ray, to the countdown to the Oscars on the red carpet with E!, and co-hosting Look A Like and Sexy Girl,  Alissia is a prominent figure in the fashion industry and her success has earned her the reputation of a highly sought after international fashion and celebrity stylist. Beyond fashion and music, Alissia’s portfolio includes an extensive list of advertising clients including Diesel, ESPN, Nike, Acura, Orbit, and CAT. Her eclectic mix of femininity and rock n’ roll has graced the pages of such publications as L’Uomo Vogue, Neo 2 (Spain), Entertainment Weekly, New York Moves, Wonderland (Japan), The National (UAE) and Filler to name a few. In addition to her work in the industry, Alissia has two beautiful boys with whom she shares many wonderful adventures and creates lasting memories with, surfing and skateboarding being two of their favorite activities.

 

Kelly Clarkson, pregnancy #2, baby #2… and #3?

Posted on by Posted in Fame & Fam .

I love Kelly Clarkson. Her music isn’t exactly my fave – though I did like how she trashed his place in her “Since you’ve been gone” video, but early on in my relationship with my husband, maybe just weeks into living at his place, (2004) my husband worked on her video for Behind these hazel eyes. He shot through the night, and in the morning I woke up to a bouquet of red roses in a white ribbon on the pillow beside me. One of the bouquets used in the shoot. It was sweet. Kelly will always hold a special place.

(Those roses...)

(Those are my roses…)

But it’s not just the videos, it’s the fact that she’s real. She’s handled the fame and pregnancy and the media with grace and strength. She’s not the untouchable, she’s one of us.

So, by chance, I heard about her radio interview yesterday with 103.7’s Leigh Ann & Courtney Uncorked, where the 33-year-old singer dropped a hint that her pregnancy was actually twins. Congrats Kelly!

“When I pop out these kids…” Doesn’t that sound like she’s eluding to twins? You decide, have a listen here.

And then she went on to say she was experiencing hyperemesis. For anyone who hasn’t had such severe morning sickness that they were 25 pounds lighter the day after they gave birth than the day they got pregnant, let me explain. Hyperemesis is sever morning sickness. It’s morning, afternoon, evening and nightsickness. It’s never being able to stop throwing up. You get dehydrated. You get malnourished. You get zapped of all energy, and still you can’t stop throwing up. My doctor told me morning sickness was a sign of a good, strong pregnancy, and I clung to that as I found myself constantly racing to the bathroom, even as I finished up my 8th month.

They’ve already announced they’re having a boy, will it be a two-for-one? We’ll see in about 6 months, won’t we!

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yipoOY56MbM&w=420&h=315]

Apple tartlettes – because I’m on a bake sale blitz

Posted on by Posted in Delicious Dishes .

 
Apple Tartlettes going into the oven

Apple Tartlettes going into the oven

Any time there’s a bake sale I will ask my boys to pick what I make. This time the boys picked my Apple Tartlettes.

I love making these. Though they’re labour-intensive and just a little bit fussy, these are so delicious and full of fresh-baked goodness that I can’t refuse. They’re also a twist on the apple dumplings my grandmother used to make me when I was really little, so I relish the opportunity to enjoy making them for my boys – I just relish the opportunity very sparingly!

This recipe can actually be used three ways:

Tartlette

Tartlette

The tartlette option is great for single servings without needing a plate. Just like any tart or muffin, it fits into the finger food category.

The pie option is perfect for a party or a dinner – or even a pie-eating contest, but not for a bake sale. I don’t believe any bake sale item should require a plate or cutlery.

The dumpling option is perfect for a small number of servings because you really don’t want to be making the amount of pastry dough it takes to make a large number of dumplings!

Dumplings

Dumplings

What you need:

– 12 apples, peeled and cored (macs, empire, gala will all do)
– 4 to 5 cups of flour
– ice water
– butter
– salt
– 1 to 2 cups white sugar
– 1.5 tablespoons cinammon
– 1 teaspoon vanilla

What you do:

Prepare the pastry dough. In a cold bowl add 2 1/5 cups of flour, half a teaspoon of salt and 1 cup of butter. Take 2 knives and cut the butter into the flour. Imagine you’re using the knives like scissors and pulling them across so that they cut up the butter with every stroke.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vfMq-uVm5vc&w=560&h=315]

It’s a technique that will leave you with flaky pastry, but if you’re not up for it, throw the flour, salt and butter into a food processor and let fly. You want to end up with a flour mixture that looks kind of like the texture of rough corn meal.

Now, tablespoon by tablespoon, add the ice water to the flour mixture, gathering and gently needing the water in. It won’t take more than a third of a cup or so of water, but try to use the least amount possible. When the pastry dough forms a dry ball but sticks together you know you’re there.

Wrap that ball of dough in plastic wrap and shove it in the fridge. It’s good to chill for at least an hour, but also fine to let chill overnight if you want to break this into two days.

While the dough’s chilling, get those apples peeled, cored and sliced. Slices should be about a centimetre wide – some more, some less. Add to the apples a teaspoon of salt and between 1 to 2 cups of white sugar. Depends on your sweet tooth. I like landing somewhere in the middle. Add the cinnamon, add 2 to 3 heaping tablespoons of flour (you gauge this by how wet the apples are, you don’t want the mixture to be too juicy, the flour will help that juice to set and gel).

Toss it all together with your hands, working the sugar/flour/cinnamon/salt concoction into the apples. Drizzle the vanilla over the mixture and toss a bit more.

Preheat the oven to 350° and grab your muffin tin or pie dish.

Now you’re ready to roll. Get the rolling pin, the pastry dough and a large cutting board or surface to roll on.

For tartlettes: take a third of the dough and roll out very, very thin. Each third of the dough should roll into about 10 tartlettes. cut the dough into 4 by 4 inch squares. Work them into the muffin tin, pinching the dough together as it folds back over itself. When it finishes baking, the crisped, folded edges look all fancy and artisany. Ensure the bottom is pressed down so that it provides ample space for apple filling! Fill each tartlette right to the top with apple filling, packing the apple mixture down. Apples will shrink back so you want them really full.

For pie: take half the dough and roll out to the diameter that will cover your pie tin. Dump apple filling in and spread smooth. Roll other half of dough into a circle, cover pie. Crimp edges. poke a couple of holes in the crust to let steam escape.

For dumplings: take a handful-sized ball of dough and roll into a thick, rough circle about 5 or so inches in diameter. It doesn’t need to be perfectly round. Drop a good wad of apple in the middle of the circle. Pull up edges and crimp them together, then cup the dumpling in your hands and squish it all together, gently rounding like you would a meatball, so that the dough ball full of apple filling won’t leak and feels solid. Pop dumplings into muffin tin. Sprinkle the tops with sugar.

Regardless of the option you choose, put it Into the oven for 40 to 45 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown and the house smells like sweet apple happiness.

WARNING!! Do NOT eat straight out of the oven. The apples and the the sugar/flour/juice mixture that gels is steaming hot and will scald the inside of your mouth. Let cool for a good 15 minutes, and when Urban Suburban Daddy can take it no more, let him and the boys have one!