The Cobbler and the Fireworks

Every summer (most likely on the 4th of July) I like to make this special cobbler and serve it with vanilla ice cream. It reminds me of quiet afternoons in the country, sitting around the pool or pond, and spending time with family. I haven't been baking a lot since we moved into our new apartment last year. Spare time is hard to find these days. But nothing can compare to that feeling you get when everyone is enjoying a dish put so much love into.... I know, it's corny but it's true. I like to use Martha Stewarts recipes, and this one can be found here. It can be expensive to make, especially these days when the cost of groceries is so high. But if you are lucky enough to get the berries from a friend's patch, that is the best way to go. I "one-and-a-half" the recipe in order to fill a 9 x 13 baking dish and then have a little left over for a tiny cobbler to keep as our secret stash at home. Here, you will see about $12 in berries. I'll pay $12 for berries once a year...

Blueberries and strawberries are fun for the 4th because they are blue and red, of course. After baking, the sauce is a rich burgundy color, so I like to place some fresh strawberry slices and blueberries on top of each biscuit so it's looks a little more festive. It's not the tidiest of desserts, but it's definitely the yummiest.

After attending a cookout at Kerry's in the afternoon we took a much needed nap and then met Craig and Latha for fireworks in Evanston. Two years ago we saw the fireworks from the north side of Evanston and the traffic was ridiculous on the way home. Last night I suggested we stay on the southern end of town. It took a few minutes to find parking but afterward we zipped right on home with no trouble. The air was quite chilly, especially by the lake so I brought extra blankets to keep warm. Next year it would be nice to be at the launch site of the display. I think there is a musical performance that accompanies the fireworks. I'm a big fan of revolutionary tunes and the like especially on America's birthday.

Latha and I trying to keep warm

Of course the boys have to climb the rocks.... trouble-makers!