Archive   |   November, 2009

local flavor: chicago’s bleeding heart bakery

Posted by in traveling

bhbowner
bhbcupcakes
I have a long list of standard Chicago experiences handy for when tourists visit: the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, deep dish pizza, and a visit to the Bleeding Heart Bakery (1955 W. Belmont; 773-327-6934). The organic bakery boasts an overwhelming array of vegan and gluten-free treats, but fear not, stubborn carbovores — there are plenty of scrumptious traditional goodies for you, too. More punk rock than crunchy hippie, BHB features an extravagant array of cupcakes painted with neon frosting in decadent flavors like Mexican hot chocolate, mango chile, dulce de leche, red velvet, and peanut butter bacon. Their cakes have gained some notoriety, too — co-owner Michelle Garcia has appeared on the Food Network’s Extreme Cakes (dummy reproductions of their winning cakes and their medals sit above the door). Visit their website for more information, the latest cupcake flavors, or just to drool. — Katie D.

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flipping for topsy turvy dolls

Posted by in giving, living with kids

topsyturvy
dinodolls
Finding dolls that encourage our daughters to use their imagination has been a bit of a challenge. (Although not as big of a challenge as steering away from dolls that look, well, trampy.) The Topsy Turvy Doll is a winner on all counts and a great value to boot. Each doll is actually two dolls — reverse the skirt and Alice becomes the Queen of Hearts — and the detailing is incredible. We gave the Alice doll and the Mermaid doll as birthday gifts and both were a hit. Find them for $28 at North American Bear Co. If you’re not into dolls, Topsy Turvy Pets include a dinosaur egg that turns inside out! — Sarah L.

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post off: what’s your favorite part of thanksgiving?

Posted by in holidays

thanksgivingpostoff

Thanksgiving is by far my favorite holiday. Exactly why that is, I’m not quite sure. Maybe it’s the stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole. Or maybe it’s the drama-free memories of our family and close friends clustered around a too-tiny table enjoying a meal together. It could be how every year, without fail, my dad and I would slip into a l-tryptophan nap on the couch watching a Mel Brooks movie before pie was even served. Or it could be the simple act of gathering loved ones together over dinner and giving thanks for what the year has brought us. A whole holiday based on appreciating what you have is a beautiful thing, indeed. Of course, now we need to know what you think: what makes your turkey day special? — Megan B.

NOTE: We’re taking the rest of the week off. See you on Monday!

Photo by S Brown

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real life test kitchen: old bay crab cakes

Posted by in cooking

baycrab

Confession: I never tasted crab until I was 23. Completely forgivable, as I grew up in the Midwest and didn’t live out East until after college. But now that we’re back home, we miss the fresh seafood! In the fall and winter, our local store stocks vacuum-sealed blue crab. A bit pricey at nine dollars for eight ounces, but the taste of a classic Maryland crab cake that’s more crab than breading brings back a lot of great memories. — Sarah L. Click for the recipe. (more…)

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