Apple & Cranberry Crumble
I am of the firm belief that a nice fruit crumble (or crisp, cobbler, brown Betty or slump) makes a perfectly suitable breakfast (slumps being of course particularly suitable for Monday mornings), especially when topped with a blop of thick plain yogurt. Whomever came up with the breakfast rules of engagement and classified donuts, Danish and Pop Tarts as such while only allowing crumbles and crisps room at the dessert table was terribly unfair. Of course it’s the leftovers that are more likely to show up as breakfast, but on a winter weekend can you think of a nicer welcome for a group around your kitchen nook than a warm apple, pear and cranberry crumble pulled from the oven as the coffee percolates? (Or arrives in its Tim Horton’s cup, whichever fits.)
I love the ballast of plain yogurt with sweet-tart crumbles, but sometimes, especially at dessert when there’s no ice cream, I’ll swirl in some maple syrup and a drop of the vanilla A brought back from Mexico for me (I’m running out – you’d better go back soon).
I don’t want to type out a recipe for apple crisp just on principle. I never use one, and I think writing it out in such a format suggests that it needs to be followed.
Here’s what I do: thickly slice or chunk unpeeled apples and/or pears into a baking dish, add a handful of fresh or frozen cranberries (which of course is completely optional; frozen raspberries or blackberries would be great too) and toss with a bit of sugar and cinnamon if the apples are tart. If they’re sweet enough to eat out of hand without puckering, you probably don’t need the sugar. For the crumble, blitz equal amounts of whole wheat (or all-purpose) flour, oats and brown sugar in the food processor with half as much butter or canola oil and almonds or walnuts if you want them. (Alternatively, you could leave them out and scatter them overtop of the crumble before it goes into the oven.) You can totally wing this – all you’re looking for is a mixture that will hold together when you squeeze it in your hands – the ratio is pretty much up to you. Sprinkle it over the fruit and bake at 375°F for about 45 minutes. Serve warm with ice cream, whipped cream or yogurt.
By the way, I’m loving getting to know you all better via your resolutions, lack thereof, and reasons why. I love the range of goals, the depth and simplicity and wisdom of each message, and that weight-related resolutions were rare. I spent much of the weekend popping in and out of stores, my Blackberry like a security blanket in my pocket I’d pull out every few minutes to run my thumb over, scrolling through the comments and devouring each one as it came like little pep talks between the racks and in changing rooms.
I made the mistake of having Mike drop me off at Holt’s on the way home from the dog park, in my unstylish jeans, beaten-up Blundstones and red plaid wool Elmer Fudd jacket (men’s), and I’m quite sure I didn’t manage a shower this morning. Let’s just say I wasn’t offered any assistance in the Prada shoe section. Not that my odds of finding something slinky in size 11 were stellar anyway. (Hello, Payless!)
I hesitate to dip a toe into the subject of clothes shopping at eleven o’clock at night, but it seems I’ve already opened the door a crack. (If you have to get back to work, or have more blog surfing to do, I completely understand.) Approximately half the people I know have suggested I go and buy myself something fabulous that makes me feel fabulous to wear to introduce A.B. the day after tomorrow (!), which is fantastic advice, really. I would totally take it if it was at all possible to find something fabulous that ACTUALLY FIT ME. Size 11 shalakas aside, I’m not plus-size in a traditional, easy-to-fit-just-in-bigger-sizes way. I watched Queen Latifah host the People’s Choice Awards last week – fabulous looking as always in a strapless gown I could never pull off – although we may be similar in size (maybe? I have no idea – the camera adds 30 pounds, not 10) I’m not smooth and curvy like her, I’m rolly and saggy, a (literal) hangover from my weight loss. My three tiered back roll will not be tamed by Spanx (even when I double bag it) and turns into man-hips, so if you were to use a tape measure you’d find I’m wider in the middle and around the tops of my thighs than where my belt would go. I have broad shoulders that rarely fit into women’s clothes. Below them, as an unkind friend once pointed out; “wow, you have the BIGGEST barrel chest I have EVER SEEN!”, a phrase that repeats itself every time I walk past a full-length mirror. (To clarify: she wasn’t talking cup size.) I know – everyone is their worst critic, and we all have our own body issues that probably aren’t as bad as we think. I’m not trying to be harsh, just honest; I’ve been told the same by more than one person charged with cleaning me up enough to make me TV-worthy. It doesn’t matter, but sometimes it does.
Why am I telling you this? I guess because it seems to me an intrinsic part of my day, an element not to be skimmed over to get to dinner (roast chicken and lemon-Parmesan risotto, with accidentally thawed scallops stirred in with a handful of spinach at the end) – and come to think of it, an intrinsic part of my life. Or maybe just because it’s what I was feeling as I scrolled through your comments – this is the stuff I’m going to try not to bring onstage with me tomorrow night. (Should I be typing these posts while horizontal on the couch? I feel a bit like I’m on How to Look Good Naked – have you heard it’s launching in Canada?)
But the difference is that today, even though it was as frustrating (honestly, fluorescent lights and full-length mirrors? do people enjoy this?) as it has been every time I’m on a deadline to make myself presentable for some event I’d prefer to be a little more Carrie Bradshaw for, and I as always ogled amazing clothes and so badly and familiarly wished (I reserve wishes only for things I know I can’t have, no matter how hard I work for them) I could wear, I considered this: what if I just am as I am now? Would I be good enough? Could I stop focusing an inordinate amount of time and energy on this particular aspect of myself and spend that energy elsewhere? Rather than frame up my life around an anticipated better (physical) version of me, what if this is just it? Huh. It made me remember that last time (when I successfully lost weight and got into shape) letting the pressure of it go somehow made the process easier. Just thinking and worrying about it, being sad or ashamed of it, adds as much extra weight as those pounds you’re bent on losing. To stop carrying that load around was in itself healthy, and somehow made it easier to be who I wanted to be. Which included losing weight.
To quote Hogarth from The Iron Giant; “you are who you choose to be.” Love that.
January 11 2010 12:17 am | breakfast
Laurie on 11 Jan 2010 at 12:37 am #
We all have our image challenges. You’re a tall woman, and not anorexic. But then, so was Julia Child. So you are in good company. Play to your strengths, and don’t fret the rest. You were born with one tremendous gift – beautiful hair. Gloss, shiny, swinging natural blonde hair is a knockout in any category. For the rest there is your attractive face and charismatic personality. The warmth in your expression, your pretty eyes and your knowledge of your craft will help you to shine. Go for it. We are all a work in progress, even AB himself.
Kelley on 11 Jan 2010 at 3:29 am #
A friend of mine once said something to help me calm down before a presentation to a large group of people, some of whom I knew and some not. He said “just remember you’re among friends”. On Tuesday, you will be among friends, whether you know them all personally or not. There will be people who have followed you, your career and blog, and been impressed by all that you have accomplished. They’ll just be happy they managed to get tickets to see you and AB together. Try to stop worrying and doubting yourself – you will be great (and in whatever you wear)!
Susan on 11 Jan 2010 at 5:46 am #
Normally I lurk at Dinner with Julie – enjoying your food, your insight and your humour – but today I thought I could maybe help. I’m also a 6′tall plus sized woman, but I love clothes. They don’t always love me. Places to try Fashion Addition in Willowpark, and Toni Plus in South Centre. You won’t get attitude and they both have some beautiful things. My choice for a dramatic presentation: black pants and a fabulous top.
Manon From Ontario on 11 Jan 2010 at 6:58 am #
I agree with what you said at the end…what if I just am as I am now?…letting the pressure of it go somehow made the process easier.
It’s not easy, I am proof of that, I’ve been working on losing this extra weight now for 8 years Julie…friggin 8 years…..enough!
Have a great week.
MFO
Lana in South Mountain (ON) on 11 Jan 2010 at 7:21 am #
I agree with Susan. Black pants and a beautiful, V-neck top are the way to go. Your bright eyes and hair and sparkling personality will be what attracts everyone’s attention anyway!
And it is so true: letting go of the pressure, literally lifts weight from you. Have you read “the Secret”? If you continually tell yourself that you could never wear those clothes, or will never lose the backrolls, etc, you never will. I am trying to tell myself every day how grateful I am for the body I have. It is healthy, my arms can hold my children, my feet walk me where I want to go, my brain works, my lungs breathe, you get the idea. I would rather be overweight, getting older and waking up breathing every day, then the alternative.
I love you, Juls.
Kathy on 11 Jan 2010 at 7:33 am #
Hi Julie, I have spent a small fortune on tailoring and alterations b/c I am not a standard size everywhere-parts of me are plus; parts aren’t. I remember a tip from Stacy London on What Not To Wear to buy clothes that fit one’s biggest part and the rest can be taken in.
JulieVR on 11 Jan 2010 at 7:37 am #
Got the black pants! Sandwich (a bit ironic, no?) pants, from Eye on Design. Unfortunately it’s the fabulous top I’m struggling with a bit – I’m not one for coordinating outfits! A little fashion impaired, I’m afraid. I got a really cute kind of lacy black top and have a long grey jacket to go overtop – whether or not it actually works is the question!
Yes – love the suggestion to get things altered – I need to find someone and do just that. Great advice!
sarah @ syrupandhoney on 11 Jan 2010 at 7:41 am #
I’m at a loss for how to wisely and concisely comment on body image matters, but I did want to say I agree that yogurt on anything makes it breakfast. And I’m sending positive energy your way!
Chelsey on 11 Jan 2010 at 7:58 am #
Great un-recipe! I have to agree getting things altered to fit you works wonders. It’s amazing how a shirt fitted to your own body flatters. That’s really whats the matter. I happen to be pretty small chested, so shopping for shirts I’m all tight in the middle and saggy in the chest. So I alter shirts I like by cutting out the boobs. lol. Looks fab every time (and no one has to know).
Chelsey on 11 Jan 2010 at 8:07 am #
…Of course I sew it back together too. lol.
rea on 11 Jan 2010 at 8:08 am #
julia child was barrel chested and, if one is to believe julie/julia, one sexy beast in the boudoir. maybe you need to start from the inside out and invest in some terrific, sexy lingerie?
JulieVR on 11 Jan 2010 at 8:12 am #
You know what though? She really wasn’t. Yes, Julia Child was big and tall, but not overweight – look at her – http://gratinee.wordpress.com/2009/07/24/an-ode-to-julia-child/ – I was watching Cook Like a Chef over the holidays and was really surprised at how svelte she was. I mean not waiflike, but trim and pretty toned, not rolly-polly. Look at that fitted shirt! looks great on her.
Ann on 11 Jan 2010 at 8:16 am #
It seems like every woman has wardrobe challenges and body issues. You’re certainly not alone in your struggle to find the right thing to wear for this special occasion – we can all relate.
Just remember – your friends, family, and fans all LOVE you for who you are, exactly how you are right now.
And as has been mentioned – you’re so beautiful with your shining hair, big smile, pretty eyes, lovely voice, wicked sense of humor, etc, etc. Remember that and simply enjoy your special evening and HAVE FUN.
(BTW – I love yogurt on fruit crisps, too!)
Cheryl Arkison on 11 Jan 2010 at 8:27 am #
1. I actually make crisps for breakfast not dessert. It seems more breakfasty to me that after dinner treat.
2. That store Lilli and Lime on 11th carries fancy clothes in larger sizes. I’ve never had need to buy anything there, but I’ve seen them.
3. I have a good tailor, I couldn’t survive without her. In the drycleaners on Elbow Drive.
4. I’m an 11 now too – damn babies. Browns and Arnold Churgin do bring in 41s in their European shoes, but there is a lot of digging to be had to find them.
5. Letting go. A fantastic and fantastically hard lesson.
JulieVR on 11 Jan 2010 at 8:31 am #
Ha – a good friend of mine owns Lili Lime – she’s bigger too (but not as tall) and is always complaining that they don’t have larger stuff (she has partners) – I’ll check it out, but from what I’ve seen in there it’s pretty slinky/fancy/prom dress sort of stuff. Lots of sequins and glitter, even on their jeans. (Read: not me.) It’s hard to decide what the dress code is for a gorgeous concert hall, introducing a guy who is likely wearing jeans!
erin on 11 Jan 2010 at 8:43 am #
Julie,
I think the long grey jacket would look great! Good luck and have fun tomorrow!
Cathy D on 11 Jan 2010 at 8:56 am #
I love Eye on Design. They have some great stuff. I bought my Juno outfit there!
Black jacket, nice top, grey jacket sounds great. You are going to look amazing. If you are still stuck for the top, maybe go see Kim Stern at Boutik in Hotel Arts. She’s a miracle worker.
About the tailor: I go to Kim’s in Inglewood, behind Marshall’s Drugs. She’s been doing my tailoring for 10 years. Her name is actually Lourdes, she bought the store from Kim and didnt’ change the name
24 hours to Anthony! Cannot wait.
rea on 11 Jan 2010 at 9:07 am #
maybe a jazzy little purse to spice up the black ensemble?
Darina on 11 Jan 2010 at 9:46 am #
What a great post, Julie. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Great photo, too. I see an Apple Cranberry crumble in my near future.
Sue (London, ON) on 11 Jan 2010 at 10:16 am #
Good luck at the event Julie. I know you’ll look amazing – you ARE beautiful and once you get up there, and you have no more time to worry about it you’ll be awesome!
Erica B. on 11 Jan 2010 at 11:00 am #
You were chosen to MC for a reason – your smarts, that intangible Julie-ness, and your smile – you’ll be fabulous even in the Elmer Fud jacket
If you’re still looking, Fashion Addition in Willow Park is a good recommendation – definitley not so heavy on the sequins and glitter in there. Bonus – there’s also Stephanie’s Kids for some fun duds for W. I WISH my hair was still your blonde… I can only get that from a bottle these days. Whoever made the ‘barrel’ comment is not a friend. Friends know how you feel and help you accentuate the positives.
I’ll be in Calgary Tuesday with J we should do coffee
robyn on 11 Jan 2010 at 11:04 am #
That blue/green flouncy top you let me wear when I was there would be amazing with black pants!
Dianne on 11 Jan 2010 at 11:08 am #
Great post Julie and wonderful comments. I just watched a video of AB being interviewed by David Letterman, and you know what? He was a little bit nervous.
As an old friend of yours used to say “I yam what I yam” and you are beautiful.
And tell me…where do you buy your Elmer Fudd jackets. I think you’ll be starting a trend with those.
Best wishes for tomorrow night. Have a blast.
Heather on 11 Jan 2010 at 11:32 am #
How about a jewel tone with those black pants? Pantone, the colour guru company has chosen turquoise for their “shade of 2010,” according to a snippet in the Globe & Mail’s style section on the weekend. With your blonde hair and blue eyes, you could totally pull off something shiny and turquoise.
jacquie on 11 Jan 2010 at 11:44 am #
I started reading your blog in September and was immediately hooked with your wonderfully simple and healthy recipes and the funny and insightful posts. I felt like I’d stumbled upon a community of kindred souls! Your posts of the last few days have made me laugh out loud and cry too! You will be wonderful, AB will be dazzled (as well he should be!) and afterwards you’ll post lots of photos and share the night with those of us unable to attend. Will be thinking of you|
Donna on 11 Jan 2010 at 2:16 pm #
Best wishes for tomorrow, Julie.
I’m busy making a High Tea style supper for my mom’s 84th birthday today. scones, rolled sandwiches, cucumber sandwiches, fruit and veges. I did one for my son and mom wanted one too. If only someone else would tidy the house.
Barb on 11 Jan 2010 at 3:27 pm #
I was kind of thinking that AB will likely be nervous too. Probably won’t remember what anyone was wearing he’ll be that nervous. What do you think? Maybe the two of you should get together and wear matching chef jackets. That would solve the problem.
Rose on 11 Jan 2010 at 3:47 pm #
Julie, I was watching It’s just food this morning and you were wearing a green and turquoise top (maybe the one Robyn mentioned) and thought it was gorgeous and would be great to wear for the special night. Anyway, you and Ned were doing the show on chutney and jam making. I love chutney and may try this one myself
Rose
Natasha on 11 Jan 2010 at 5:37 pm #
I’m so excited for you – tomorrow is a big day and I’ll be thinking of you. Don’t know if this will help but I went through countless underwear departments looking for a slip or something that would fit for that HPR Freakshow performance. I ended up wearing an old threadbare nighty and felt pretty comfortable (if you can be comfortable performing in your undies with 7 gorgeous ladies in the bowels of the Epcor center)…sometimes wearing something familiar and comfortable is worth it. I know it will go great and I know you’ll look fabulous all you really need to wear is your warm and loving smile (I do love how your hair looks down though). Enjoy every moment – everything you’ve done in your life has led to this and beyond and you deserve it!
Denise on 11 Jan 2010 at 5:46 pm #
Lots of good advice there Julie. I agree with those that mentioned wearing a jewel tone…and turquoise would be a great colour for you! You are right we are always so critical of our ownselves even when everyone else thinks we look fabulous. You will look fabulous and you will do a great job…believe!
JulieVR on 11 Jan 2010 at 6:27 pm #
I got something! I think it works.. I love the boots and skirt, and the top – well, it’s comfortable and forgiving, and my mom (who has great taste) loves it, so I think it’s a go. I could even get away with not wearing Spanx. I’ll take a picture tomorrow!
Anonymous on 11 Jan 2010 at 6:59 pm #
I’ve loved your books for years and have finally got organized enough to check on your blog too. Hope tomorrow night goes well and just remember to enjoy yourself too! After the whole nervous, do-I-look-okay moments…just let go and enjoy being there!
By the way, have you ever checked out Operation Beautiful? It is a blog started by a young woman to help other women (and men) feel beautiful every day. All you need is a pen and post-it notes to become part of the Operation Beautiful movement and some of the stories posted there are amazing. Check it out. http://www.operationbeautiful.com
Amber on 11 Jan 2010 at 6:59 pm #
Oops the post above was from me, forgot to fill in the name part!
Carolyn on 11 Jan 2010 at 7:01 pm #
Great post. Letting go and accepting yourself for who you are is one of the hardest things to do. Thank you for sharing these thoughts. Julie, you’re a healthy beautiful woman who makes the world a better place. What more can one aspire to?
eroica on 11 Jan 2010 at 8:19 pm #
A handful of coconut is also fun in a crumble. On the Good Bite photo a few days ago I thought you looked a lot like Daryl Hannah –really great.