Take Back the Kitchen at the Adult School and Easy Plum Crisp

Hi everyone. I’m working fast here because I’ve got a busy day tomorrow: I am hosting a big brunch here and need to get my plum crisp finished. You will be surprised to see how easy it is to use up these aging organic plums from the end of the summer to transform bruised fruit into a delicacy.

Before I share this pretty and tasty recipe, I just want to touch on the subject of taking responsibility. I was thinking about this today when I blamed my 3 year old for going out in a dress without underwear when it was actually my fault (see video below). I think I blamed her because it was the easy thing to do. I have so much on my mind at all times that I can’t remember everything and that makes me uncomfortable. You see, I used to be very competent and remember everything.

It’s hard for many of us to take on new roles or see our former selves slowly vanish when our energy and brains are taxed but for many of us, we signed up for this stay at home business. Although I can’t stand certain aspects of being a house frau, like the constant clean up, picking up my husband’s dry cleaning and helping with all the cursed 4th grade homework, I do feel that I was fortunate enough to choose this life and that these jobs are my responsibility. When I get these tasks done efficiently and with little stress, my job is easier and I am proud of my accomplishments in the house.

When I take short sighted shortcuts that make my job harder, however, I am resentful of having to take care of all these seemingly menial jobs around the house and family. A lousy place to be.

Once again, if we plan ahead, get organized and take a few moments to think about why we are at home if we are lucky enough to have the choice, we can manage all these tasks, including cooking from home , with a lot less anxiety and a lot more joy.

I got joy out of planning ahead to use these plums before they rotted and was able to turn them into something new and beautiful. Thanks for the stewed plum idea, KT. I also got joy from my cute little daughter in her naked frolicking today:

Plum Crisp:

20 very ripe plums
3/4 cup sugar (more to taste)

Topping:
3 TBS Whole wheat flour
3 TBS brown sugar
3 TBS oatmeal
3 TBS softened butter

In a big pot, throw in all the plums after you pit them. Keep stirring and they will cook down after a while, about 20-30 minutes, to a jam like texture. You need to keep stirring so they don’t stick to the bottom of the pan. When cooked down, stir in sugar until combined.

Transfer plum mixture to a smallish baking dish, like a 4″ X 6″.

In a med. sized bowl, combine all topping ingredients
Spoon out topping over surface of the plum mixture and bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes or until topping is golden brown. Best served with good, rich vanilla ice cream…

Also,I just want to touch on some upcoming TBK events and opportunities:
I will be facilitating a class at the Adult School on how to Take Back Your Kitchen for a more healthy, more nurturing and less stressful food life. November 2nd from 7-9:30PM To sign up, click below:
http://adultschool1.org/index.cfm?method=ClassInfo.ClassInformation∫_class_id=10441∫_category_id=2∫_sub_category_id=20∫_catalog_id=0

Also, I will be writing posts on http://www.baristanet.com/baristakids/blog/take-back-the-kitchen-losing-the-junk-food-without-losing-your-mind/ in the coming weeks so look out for me. Thanks!

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