Blackberry Jam Almond Bars
April 2, 2010 at 3:41 pm 105 comments
I was almost fooled by the week of sunny weather Seattle’s seen, but the rain has finally begun to pour.
Just last week, the cherry blossom trees stretched over my head in airy, arching bloom, but these days I have to duck to avoid the low branches laden with water. Rain streaks down the windows, bathing everything in a steely blue glow. Umbrellas pop open like strange flowers when I walk outside. In the mornings I wear red rain boots to class, and in the evenings I fall asleep with the sound of rain in my hair.
I usually like this kind of weather, but right now, I can’t stand it. I’m impatient for summer. Impatient for dusty sidewalk chalk and melting Creamsicles, but mostly for everything summer represents – freedom, relaxation. No stress. There are only two months to go, but I don’t think I can make myself wait.
I am tired of being patient.
I was patient all through Christmas break, through the slush of February and the bitter chill of March. Four months to go until college letters… now two months… one month to go… Every day I switched between cheery confidence and desperate doubt. It was like picking petals off a daisy – they’ll accept me, they’ll accept me not…
After months of waiting, I finally received the last of my college decisions yesterday. Of the eight schools I applied to, I was accepted at five. I was waitlisted at two very good universities. But the only school I really wanted to go to, the only school that could stir any passion in me at all, was the last one to send out decisions.
The whole day was simply killing time. I came home early and found that I had nothing to do. I ate a banana. I checked the mailbox (it was empty.) I read a book of short stories without understanding any of them. When the decision was available online, my brain staggered. I fumbled my way to the website and watched the page load with agonizing slowness.
I skimmed the first line and immediately knew. The letter was brief, polite, encouraging. It was brutal.
I read it, read it again, read it a third time with burning eyes. Emotions passed through me like images on a strip of film – horror, confusion, anger, pain, exhaustion, heartache, sorrow – until I couldn’t feel anything and laid face down on my bed, overwhelmed. Then I cried until my skin was as taut and my body was as hollow as a drum.
Have you ever felt like you’ve been waiting patiently your whole life for something? Something to validate all the work you’ve done? That’s how I felt. I’m just so disappointed in myself and I can’t help but feel wounded and unsure. I curse the thought that my only outright rejection is the only one I can’t take. I keep thinking about what I could have done, how I could have been better. I know it’s useless, but you aren’t rational when your heart is breaking.
I wish I could tell you that I’ve moved on, that the rain has cleared and I can smell summer around the bend and life is good. Not yet. It hasn’t hit me, but I know it will.
I didn’t break down today, as miserable as I felt every time I had to answer with that sad little smile, “Yep… rejected.” When I came home I wanted to be in the kitchen. And more than anything, I wanted to write. Typing out this post has been as good as Tylenol so far.
So much of my future is a mystery, but there are some things I can be certain of. Family, good food, and good company. I can be sure of ice cold lemonade in the summer to come and spiced pumpkin pie in the autumn to follow. I can be sure that luck will be with me wherever I go, though it may not always seem like luck at first, and that I will always have the patience to weather the wait.
These bars come together and bake in no time at all. Instant gratification, no patience required. For now, I can be grateful for that.
[PS: Happy birthday Grandma. Love you.]
These bars are really, really good. I’m still feeling pretty down. I could channel the hurt into a post, but I don’t really have the motivation to talk much about straight food. The bars are soft with slightly crisp edges and a bit of chew. The almond flavor is very good without being too overwhelming. Everybody liked the drops of blackberry jam and the pretty drizzle of icing. They went really quickly and I found them very addicting.
Blackberry Jam Almond Bars
Recipe barely adapted from Sophistimom
Makes a half sheet of bars
Bars
1 cup (2 sticks or 224g) unsalted butter at room temperature
2 cups (380g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon pure almond extract
4 eggs
3 cups (300g) unbleached all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup seedless blackberry jam
Drizzle
1 cup powdered sugar
3 tablespoons cream
1 teaspoon pure almond extract
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease a half sheet (13″x18″ rimmed sheet) with butter or nonstick spray.
Cream together butter and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add in eggs, one at a time, incorporating well after each addition. Add in vanilla and almond extract. Slowly add flour and salt, and mix until just incorporated.
Spread the batter into the prepared pan. It’s okay if you can’t quite get the corners, since it will spread during baking. Drop teaspoonfuls of jam evenly over the batter. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.
Allow to cool, then cut into squares (I used a pizza roller and a ruler to get even cuts.) Whisk together the powdered sugar, cream, and almond extract, and drizzle over the bars.
Printer-Friendly Recipe – Blackberry Jam Almond Bars
Entry filed under: Bars/Brownies. Tags: almond, bars, berries, blackberry, frosting, icing, jam, nuts.
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1.
Caroline | April 2, 2010 at 4:09 pm
Oh gosh, I’m so sorry about the college. Just try to look on the bright side, 5 schools realize how priveleged they would be to have you in their presence!
I am unable to tell you that I know what it feels like, being 14, I have yet to go through the agonizing (from what I hear) process of applying to Universities.
I’m sure things will get better, you’re bound to meet some amazing people and have great experiences at the college you end up choosing.
By the way, those bars look delicious and I cannot wait to get into the kitchen and whip them up. Fingers crossed mine look as good as yours do!
2.
Noelle | April 2, 2010 at 4:18 pm
i’m sorry. i got rejected from the school i really wanted to go to a year and a half ago, and it’s the worse feeling in the world. i had one back up school, but i was so confident that it was the only school i wanted to go to, that i HAD to get in. if I didn’t get in there, i didn’t want to go anywhere you know?
Getting rejected was probably one of the best things to happen to me, I decided not to go to my back up school, took time off to travel and I found my true passion in life. Now I’m waiting to hear back from the design school I applied to, my new dream school. My letter should arrive this week or the next, so I’m in the restless stage again, but if i don’t get into this school, it won’t be the end of the world, as long as you’re persistent.
you can always transfer right? :)
3.
Molly | April 2, 2010 at 4:25 pm
Elissa,
I think that in life everything that happens is meant to happen. Its taken me a long time to understand that sentence my mom has tried to pound into my head since I was little. There is always a good reason for everything, even the bad things that happen in life. You may not realize it now or anytime soon but you could go down a totally different path that will lead you to bigger and better things. Stay positive :)
4.
Katy | April 2, 2010 at 4:35 pm
I’m sorry to hear about the college decision. Their loss. :) I know it isn’t a good feeling, and it hurts, to get a rejection, especially from a school you really wanted to go to. Not fun. But you’ll get through it. And you’ll pick from the five schools you did get into, and I’m sure you’ll have a great college experience. And hey, you’ve got a whole month to pick which school you’re going to end up at. But even if you don’t end up loving or feeling passionate about wherever you end up, remember that you’re not going to be stuck there. Believe me, I know a thing or two about transferring. (I’m the whack job that is currently waiting for a decision to go back to the school I transfered from last year. Crazy, right?) You can always apply again as a transfer. Or who knows, maybe you’ll end up loving wherever you end up choosing and having a fantastic experience and education. But you shouldn’t feel disappointed in yourself. But never let anybody tell you that you’re not good enough for something. Never ever ever. I know it sounds lame, and that this might be weird because we’re total strangers, but I’m sure that you could do anything you want to. You might go a different path than you envisioned, attend a different university than you thought you would, but you’ll make it there in the end. Don’t give up, and good luck choosing a school. I know it’s tough to pick the right one, but I’m sure you’ll make the right choice. :)
p.s Sorry that this post is kinda long and random. I’m not good at organizing my thoughts and tend to ramble sometimes. :)
5.
Sam | April 2, 2010 at 4:39 pm
I’m so sorry. :( You would have made a great addition to any college–just look at what you’ve accomplished while still in high school! Still, I’m sure you’ll find happiness wherever you end up. My brother applied early decision to the one school he truly loved, and was rejected. He was heartbroken, but he went on to apply to 9 other schools, and got accepted at 8, waitlisted at 1. He ended up falling in love with one of those 8, and is extremely happy there today. I wish you all the best with your decision. :)
6.
Heather | April 2, 2010 at 4:45 pm
Hi Elissa. I just wanted to let you know that I’ve really been enjoying reading your blog – both the writing and the food :) I know it won’t replace the blow of a rejection (I’m a junior in college and love where I am even though it was not my first choice!) but I hope the validation from a reader means something too!
7.
linda | April 2, 2010 at 5:03 pm
elissa,
5 (i am sure wonderful universities) acceptances are major accomplishments…
how many can say… 5 schools accepted me?
which path you decide to take will be a road to new discoveries.
“wherever you go, go with all your heart.” ~confucius
have a peaceful w/e & know that we are all wishing you the very best…& summer is just around the corner!
8.
Kristine | April 2, 2010 at 5:04 pm
D:
I’m really sorry to hear about the decision.
Reading your post was like going through a time machine. The same thing happened to me last week. I pretty much reacted the same way. I baked rosemary kissed jam thumbprints instead though. The rosemary is quite soothing.
I suppose the only thing to do is move on, accept, and enjoy what you have.
On the bright side, the future is starting to take a more definitive shape. Being accepted by many schools is both a blessing and a curse, if you know what I mean.
Two of my teachers shared this article from the Wallstreet Journal. It definitely helps put things in perspective.
Cheesy knock knock jokes also help.
Knock knock
who’s there?
Madame
madame who?
Madame foot’s stuck in the door.
I hope that wasn’t too cheesy.
Reading your blog every Friday puts a smile on my face, so I just want to try and return the favor, although I’m sure my attempt to do so was futile. :D It’s the thought that counts though, right?
P.S. These blackberry jam almond bars look delicious. I would very much like to eat one right now.
9.
Stephanie | April 2, 2010 at 5:28 pm
Hey Elissa,
Recently went through the terror of being rejected for multiple residency programs, but at the end, think of it this way: you will be at a university that saw right through your application to the heart and soul of who you are and said, “Hey, come right in!” There’s nothing terrible about that. Best of luck to you, sweetie. You have many talents and many yet to be unveiled as you venture through these upcoming 4 years. :)
10.
Sara | April 2, 2010 at 6:28 pm
I know it’s probably not what you want to hear, but honestly, you will meet amazing people and create lifelong friendships no matter where you end up. Just keep doing what you want to be doing and stay true to yourself, and you will be happy. Hang in there! (If nothing else, blame the rainy weather!)
11.
Stephanie Elliott | April 2, 2010 at 6:59 pm
Hi Elissa,
As I have mentioned to you before, I teach AP English Lit and am the GATE Coordinator at a high school. I see my students experience just what you have described and the grieving you are going through is to be expected. However, I tell my students that every door that closes helps to narrow our options in a way that we sometimes need and inevitable keeps us on the path that is right for who we are and who we are to become. I can’t help but think this experience and the blog it inspired has helped you ease the heartbreak of many others going through disappointment themselves. What I admire so much is your maturity and that you know how to find healing in what you love. All my best to you!
12.
Sarah | April 2, 2010 at 7:01 pm
Hi Elissa,
That absolutely stinks. I’m so sorry, though I know how you feel. I was rejected by my dream school early action and four months later it still hurts. Baking helps a lot–though it’s Passover right now and I’m pretty much limited to macaroons and flourless chocolate cake for now. If I never whip another egg white again it’ll be too soon. But I also am struggling not to feel like those letters were some sort of judgement on me and the past seventeens years of my life. It’s hard, but my mother and the newspapers remind me that there are greater sadnesses in life than not getting into a college.
And soon other things come to occupy your mind–crocuses pop up in your backyard, your English class reads an absolutely amazing book that changes your whole view of the world. I discovered your blog, and now I eagerly await your posts every week. I’m a lot like you–aspiring journalist, avid baker. Though I’m extremely jealous of your photographs–I’m completely inept at using any technology more complicated than a telephone, so my photography skills are limited. You actually inspired me to start a blog, though I’m still scrambling for time to write.
I’m sure you’ll be happy wherever you go. That’s what people keep telling me, and though I still feel a little bruised I’m excited for my other schools and the decision I’ll have to make. It’s warming up in New York, after three straight days of torrential downpour at the beginning of the week. And next Tuesday night I’ll be able to bake again. Cherry blossoms will come out and my favorite author is speaking in Union Square next week. It’s exciting! And with all your amazing talents (this blog alone has floored me, so I’m sure that the rest of you is equally spectacular) you are certain to have a fantastic experience at some college that is equally wonderful and far more deserving for having recognized your greatness.
I’m sorry that this post is long and somewhat sappy. I have a tendency to be overly emotional/philosophical. Plus I feel a sort of kinship with you, knowing for the past four months that someone on the other side of the country with similar interests to my own is going through the exact same agony that I am. I hope that the sun comes out soon in Seattle, and I wish you the best of luck with everything coming your way. Until then, enjoy your blackberry bars! They look delicious.
13.
Heather | April 2, 2010 at 7:02 pm
I just wanted to tell you about a friend of mine.
The only thing she ever wanted to do in life is be a large animal veterinarian. She worked very hard toward that goal. But when the time came to apply for vet school, she didn’t get in. She applied the following year with the same result. I remember the day her 2nd rejection letter came. We were all far from our families, at college. So she didn’t have her mom to comfort her. All of us friends tried to comfort her as best we could. But she was inconsolable. Her dream had been stolen from her. After a few months of depression, she pulled herself up by her bootstraps and made different plans for life. She ended up going to nursing school in a different part of the country.
She’s told me numerous time that her life is happier than she ever thought possible and that she’s incredibly grateful that she went to nursing school. She is convinced that her life turned out exactly as it was supposed to turn out.
Anyway, my point is that I firmly believe that life takes us on a journey that we can’t foresee. The best parts of that journey are ALWAYS the unexpected bends in the road.
While you may be disappointed now, you will have a great life. You have found passion in life and you have purpose. Good things will come to you. And at some point you’ll look back at this moment and realize that the things you have wouldn’t be there if life had taken the path you had in mind. Fate takes us where we are supposed to go, girly.
I love your blog. Keep baking. :)
14.
alexandra | April 2, 2010 at 8:27 pm
someone like you will be able to find a niche for themselves/ find things that they’re passionate about/ be happy at whatever school they end up at. i know that might not be much consolation right now, but i hope that you do take it as a compliment! your character and strength are quite evident through your blog, and you will bring a lot to whatever school you end up picking. the “dream school” concept is overrated, really! best of luck with your decision.
15.
Alli | April 2, 2010 at 9:02 pm
Hi Elissa,
I’ve been reading your blog for months and months, and I am finally delurking because I want to tell you that:
1. Those bars look delicious! I love almond.
and
2. I know how difficult it is to be rejected, especially when you’re so sure that the path that has been closed to you is the best path to take you to where you want to be. I know that it’s already been said a plethora of times in the comments above mine, and in better words than I could offer, but everything’s going to be okay. I’m sure that you will go on to be successful at doing what you love to do. And I know that the hope of what’s to come doesn’t take the sting away, but I hope you are encouraged in knowing that all of your loyal followers believe in you and are cheering for you.
16.
Indhu | April 2, 2010 at 9:09 pm
I am so sorry… but it is their loss Elissa… I loved this post of yours… you are so mature and I wish I had been half as mature when I was 17… I too am from Seattle and I absolutely love your blog… as much for your posts as for the recipes :)
17.
Deese | April 2, 2010 at 9:26 pm
As a big sister who just went through the college application/acceptance/rejection thing with my baby sister, I want to say I’m sorry. My little sister got into 2 of the 4 schools she applied to. She was rejected from her first choice too, but now she will be going to my Alma mater, which is a great school for her chosen degree.
However, she plans to stay for 1 year and then transfer to her first choice. That is if she doesn’t fall in love with the school and decide to stay.
So, my advice is to pick the school that you think will fit you best and decide after a semester or two if you want to attempt a transfer to your first choice. You may find your 2nd choice is the prefect school for you!
Great bars! I will be trying these soon. Keep baking I find it a great form of therapy.
18.
Hanna Begic | April 2, 2010 at 11:13 pm
Hello.
I have only started reading your blog and am amazed at how well constructed and written it is by incorporating lovely words & your love for food.
I must say that being a 15 year old i too am pressured as what to think when applying for a university.
I can understand what you must be feeling & what i say next is an unusual comment as i would hardly listen to myself,
Something happens for a reason & u were probably not meant to go there. I know that is the worst piece of advice but coming from one such as myself i tend to think it is true.
You have an amazing blog & no doubt cooking skills. Don’t let this ruin your life.
Keep cooking wonder girl.
19.
Emma @ Poires au Chocolat | April 3, 2010 at 12:19 am
I’m so sorry to hear that happened to you. I have to say, though, that while I’m sure it doesn’t feel that way now, it’s often for the best.
When I first applied to university, I had my heart set 100% on studying medicine at Oxford (we do it as undergrad here in the UK). My beloved grandfather and great-grandfather went there and it was my family’s dream – my grandfather cried (put it this way – he didn’t cry – at least in front of anyone – when my Grandma died) when I told him I was applying. I thought about nothing else – I worked relentlessly on my a levels and admissions tests etc. I did well. I got to the interview stage, which was the biggest cull of applicants.
And then I was rejected. It felt like my life, my dream, had been taken from me. I cancelled my other applications and decided to apply again (They take 150 students, I came 152nd out of thousands – that hurt.).
But then, after time, I realised it wasn’t a perfect fit. I didn’t have a truly heart-felt answer to ‘why do you want to be a doctor?’. I wanted my family to approve of me, for my grandpa to be so proud of me. I don’t know my father, he was my inspiration.
But then nine months later, I applied for English Literature. My family were furious, despite the fact I still got into Oxford. ‘You can read, can’t you?’ etc etc. I still get sharply edged ‘jokes’ about it. But it’s okay, because I’m where I’m meant to be. I’m happy. English may not be what I pursue in life (hopefully that’ll be pastry!) but it’s what was right for me at this point in my life and I love it.
I know it’s hard. I cried for days. I’ve never felt so worthless. I found out on my way to school for a school trip – it was possibly the most painful day I can remember as everyone kept asking me, sure I would have got in.
I promise you, somehow it’ll turn out for the best.
20.
Deborah | April 3, 2010 at 3:49 am
Your post took me back to a similar experience. I think everyone who has said that things work out unexpectedly and that you are being redirected on the right path for you is right. I’ve seen that to be true so many times although it might be years before you figure out why. That doesn’t mean you can’t also work to put things right, if you want to. Maybe you’ll end up at your first choice university as a postgraduate student – or maybe by then, it will no longer be what you want. Good luck – your blog is wonderful and I’m sure you are going to make a very positive contribution wherever you end up.
21.
Cousin Sharon | April 3, 2010 at 4:28 am
Elissa,
Everything that happens in life happens for a reason. Pick one of the schools that appreciates what you have to offer them. Realize that the school is only as good as its current students. There are so many things that go into acceptance decisions that you should try not to take this as a rejection, just that you were one of too many talented young adults that wanted to go to that university, and there just weren’t enough slots. I really feel for you but know that whatever school you go to will be a better place for having you as one of its students.
22.
flory | April 3, 2010 at 7:16 am
oh gods, i just got rejected from my dream university too. but i believe that you’ll do wonderful things no matter where you are! it honestly is their loss — and whereever you go, it’ll be awesome because =you’ll= be a student at -their- campus.
the sun will shine!
23.
Micaela | April 3, 2010 at 7:56 am
Elissa,
Getting rejected is really disappointing, but my friends and I all agree that you get into the school you’re meant to go to. I’m a junior in college and my best friend didn’t get into her dream school and ended up here instead and she is grateful every day for getting rejected from her “dream” school! So let yourself be sad for a while (it helps) but wherever you end up, just be ready to fully embrace it and in time I’m sure you’ll be grateful as well. Love your blog!! :)
24.
Amy | April 3, 2010 at 7:58 am
Oh, I’m so sorry to hear about that. Chin up~
25.
Kodi | April 3, 2010 at 8:02 am
So much about what makes your college experience amazing is the people you meet there, and not where exactly you are. Recieving a rejection letter is never fun, but try to focus on the five incredible options you have, and know that wherever you go you will meet people who will make the experience incredible and create memories and friendships that will last you a lifetime. :)
26.
Anne | April 3, 2010 at 8:21 am
I was rejected from both my first AND second college choices, even though I had the grades, the activities, and everything I needed to excel at those schools. I understand your devastation right now. You’ll cry, you’ll throw tantrums, you’ll think your future is in doubt. You’ll even be jealous of your friends that got into their first choices.
I ended up a small state school and formed friendships I will have the rest of my life. I wrote for the newspaper, another opportunity I would not have had at my choice schools. I spent a semester abroad, which was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I am twelve years out of college and still reminisce about that time in my life. The best is yet to come for you.
There are clouds and rain now…that’s part of life. The sun will shine again though and you will see the way forward with renewed perspective.
Good luck…and keep baking. I love your blog.
27.
Valérie | April 3, 2010 at 9:59 am
Oh Elissa… I’ve been there, most of us have. And it hurts, and it makes us feel less worthy, and it makes us question ourselves. But you mustn’t take this kind of administrative rejection as a reflection on your value, or as a personal judgement against you. College admissions, just like scholarship attributions or even job offers, depend on so many factors, a lot of which are beyond our control; sometimes, it can feel downright arbitrary. But you are creative and thriving, and have so many talents; you are going to have so much validation throughout your life. And even though it hurts right now, things will look better soon. Hang in there, and all the best.
28.
Kim, Rambling Family Manager | April 3, 2010 at 10:12 am
My heart is breaking for you; I know that’s a huge disappointment. You are amazing and if I could go and shake some sense into those admissions people at that college I would- grrrr.
29.
Mel | April 3, 2010 at 11:47 am
I’ve been following your blog for the past few months, and I’m shocked that any school wouldn’t be begging you to choose them. You are so talented, creative, and interesting — it’s truly their loss that you won’t be there. I hope all the best for you as you make your next choice. Whichever school you choose will be so fortunate to have you in their freshman class.
30.
good girl gone blog | April 3, 2010 at 12:52 pm
Aww sweetheart, rejection is hard. I will tell you that I applied early decision to a school I thought was perfect for me, got deferred and then didn’t get in. I was absolutely devastated- my two best friends had just gotten in early decision to two very prestigious Ivy league schools, and I was rejected by my top school. When it came time to make the final college decision, I told my dad he should do it- if I didn’t get into my top school, then it didn’t matter. My dad of course told me to go to state school because it was cheaper, but I eventually decided to go to Boston University. I wasn’t thrilled about the idea, but looking back 4 years later, I know it was a better fit for me. The thing is, you may think that other school was perfect for you, but truthfully, it just wasn’t meant to be. I bet you wherever you end up, you’ll be extremely happy. Trust me, it happened to me. I’m here if you need to talk- definitely send me an email if you need some advice. xo.
31.
Elizabeth | April 3, 2010 at 1:20 pm
Elissa,
As much as you will find it hard to believe now, everything will work out with college. I too was rejected from my #1 choice (a very competitive university to which I would I would have been 4th generation!). I accepted my second choice’s offer to matriculate and LOVED IT. I met the most wonderful people, studied abroad within my major for my entire junior year AND was accepted to medical school (my ultimate goal since 1st grade). I will graduate from medical school in a mere 8 weeks and will start a competitive residency– and through it all I am still in touch with my closest friends from college as well as high school. College is all about the experience and who you meet on that journey. Ultimately, where you attend is not the most important factor– it’s your attitude toward the experience.
You will rock wherever you go!! With time the pain will pass– don’t let a college cookie-cutter letter pull you down. . Keep your chin up and know that you are awesome!
32.
Gale Reeves | April 3, 2010 at 1:56 pm
You are correct – ‘you aren’t rational when your heart is breaking.’ So, file this story away for another day…
I needed a new computer 4 years ago. I am successful in my career and have excellent credit, but DELL would not finance my computer purchase. I was past angry. I told DELL to ^&)($^*. I went to the apple store and purchase 2 computers. It was the best thing that could have ever happened to me and my small photography business. All that to say, sometimes we think we know what is best for us, but we really don’t. I am so thankful that DELL would not finance my computer. That failure (in my eyes) with DELL changed my life.
Your photography is amazing. Your writing is amazing. I am so hopeful for you and I can’t wait to see your life in 20 years!!!
33.
Sue | April 3, 2010 at 3:56 pm
I know it’s painful now, but as time passes you will see that things work out for the best! (I know it sounds both trite and cliche, but it’s so true!) One day as you look back you will see that THIS road has taken you places that you’ve never dreamed of!
34.
Making my Mark | April 3, 2010 at 4:24 pm
Oh, I’m sorry. The pain of rejection stings like no other, but something great that you never considered may come your way.
Bake a few sweets, clear your head, then get back up.
35.
Making my Mark | April 3, 2010 at 4:27 pm
I wasn’t finished before my comment posted.
You are too talented, too passionate, too motivated to let this get you down. This is just a bump in the road of life that I know can propel you into something even better.
36.
Linda | April 3, 2010 at 4:54 pm
Shame on them, for not recognizing what a jewel they rejected. You are smart, so incredibly eloquent, not to mention a heck of a cook! I see something wonderful in your future, and I am so glad I found your blog, so that I can be a (remote) part of it.
I hope your black cloud lifts from your shoulders soon. I know how awful it must feel. You just want to crawl into bed, pull the covers over your head and hibernate until it all goes away! And it will go away, eventually.
I’m sending you long-distance hugs from San Diego! You are in my thoughts and, as I still tell my grown-up kids, I’m waving my magic wand like crazy in the hope that it will make you feel better.
Fondly, Linda
37.
jessie | April 3, 2010 at 6:11 pm
Elissa,
By now you have like a billion comments about how rejection can be a good thing, and I’m one to atest to that. After being rejected from my “dream school” I chose a college in the city (NYU) and while it may have not been what my parents had expected, I had a great experience and now that I’ve graduated, I’ve realized what a great choice it was.
The dream college opens several doors, but it stops there. The rest is up to you… and the economy. Going to a great college only matters when you graduate in a terrible economy, but i suspect that by the time that comes around for you, you’ll be okay.
Best of luck to whereever you end up going to!
38.
Rosa | April 3, 2010 at 6:30 pm
Elissa,
I love your blog. I’ve been reading for a while but this is my first comment, so…hello.
I, too, was rejected by the colleges I most wanted to go to. It’s a long, hard wait for decisions, which gives you plenty of time to build up all your hopes and dreams into one “perfect” school that you just HAVE to get into. It can be devastating when you don’t get in, I know. While all of my friends were celebrating their acceptances to their dream schools, I was left trying to decide between the few I had gotten into–the ones I didn’t really want to go to but had applied to “just in case.”
Well, guess what. I’m now in my second year at one of those “just in case” schools, one that I never thought I would attend. And I love it. I couldn’t see myself anywhere else. I know this doesn’t always happen to everyone, but it is a very real possibility. Sometimes you don’t know the right place for you until you get there.
And those bars look delicious…too bad it’s still Passover =)
39.
Rachel | April 3, 2010 at 6:57 pm
Im a junior in high school right now and let me just say it is the most stressful year ever! Was it for you??? For all those comments that say it is for the best(how could it its horrible!!!), i disagree but maybe when im old and wise i will understand. Rejection is the worst and i am dreading this time next year. at least i know i will have these bars to cheer me up if needed! Eat lots of chocolate it helps i promise.
Rachel
40.
Elaine | April 3, 2010 at 7:23 pm
Hi, I’m sorry to hear this. I was there myself many years ago — my two top choice schools rejected me. I ended up going to my third choice, and you know what? It turned out fantastic, way better than either of the top two would have. I had four very, very happy years there. Funnily enough, this was true for almost everyone at my school — the whole first month or so, conversations began with, “So, who rejected you?” Yet most people came to love the place.
I imagine previous posters have said the same thing, but I hope you can find a good fit among the schools that did accept you and the same thing will happen for you. I bet it will.
41.
Kathleen | April 3, 2010 at 8:58 pm
Hi Elissa,
I’m currently a junior in college, and I went through a very similar experience during my senior year of high school. I know this time is so incredibly rough, but I just wanted to let you know that a rejection from the school that I thought was best for me was the best thing that ever happened to me–I got shoved out of my comfort zone at a school where all of my dreams have come true. Right now it sucks big time, but I promise, the future might not be as bleak as it seems :)
Best of luck!
42.
Hillary | April 3, 2010 at 11:13 pm
Hey girl. So sorry to hear about the college rejections! I’m a senior too and it’s been a stressful past few weeks! Actually, the whole “college” think is what inspired my blog. I’m sure you’ll end up wherever you’re supposed to be :)
and PS: love the blog. I’ve been reading off and on for a while now. I wish I could bake!
43.
samk | April 3, 2010 at 11:18 pm
hi.The other posts have given you lots of support but having been in your position some years back I thought my tale may help . my story is from the UK but I too cried .I wanted to be a doctor and applied and was rejected by all the schools I applied for. We go to medical school straight from school at 18.But come summer I reapplied through our clearing system and got a place in a university I barely knew of as far from home as you can imagine but still in the UK.I met a guy over a dissecting table and we are still together over 30 years later! I guess what I am saying is serendipity or life has a way of putting us in the right place especially if you make the best of it.I also have been a doctor for the past 30 yrs and am an attending in the UK.My career has been good as well and it is largely down to the great training I had at the university i never even considered.Now my own daughters who are your age are struggling to get to university i feel their pain and yours again but now I have the faith and experience to believe life has a way of turning out for us all often in the most unexpected ways best S PS love to bake as well -great stress relief and your recipes really work even here !
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evylynn | April 4, 2010 at 2:08 am
I remember crying for hours when I got rejected from my first choice school. It didn’t help that I had almost assumed that I would get in. It also didn’t help that I knew other people at my school who had gotten in. Why not me?
But, as others have commented, it is amazing how bad events can turn out to be good. I thought I would be going to some school that I would hate. I wound up going to a university that I absolutely love.
What I do want to add, though, is that the college admissions process can be COMPLETELY random. So please do not think that there is something wrong with you. Or that you are somehow not good enough to get in. The decisions are made by people–so it cannot be a perfect system. There is chance, there is randomness, and there is human bias. Unfortunately, sometimes none of it turns in your favor.
45.
Emily | April 4, 2010 at 12:04 pm
Hey Elissa,
I also received a rejection letter from my first choice school a couple of weeks ago and your right- it’s brutal. A few of my friends applied to this school and of course I wanted to be accepted with them. Then I received that ominous letter and it crushed me. I also cried and spent the rest of the day imagining the “what ifs?” I think the hardest part was telling everyone I didn’t get in. But I’ve slowly accepted it and so will you :) I know you’ll excel no matter where you go to school. This was just a closed door. Now, go find an opened one :)
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Warm Vanilla Sugar | April 4, 2010 at 1:52 pm
I’ve never had blackberry jam! BUT, I’ve had jam-bars, and I’ve had blackberries AND I love both. I’m excited!
47.
Sara | April 4, 2010 at 4:12 pm
Ellissa,
You are amazing! Please don’t let this get you down! I adore your blog-and recently read an article in the Wall Street Journal about how some of the world’s most successful people didn’t get into that one college of their choice. I bet in a couple years from now you will fall into that category!!!! :) Keep your hopes up and heart open!
48.
Amy | April 4, 2010 at 8:23 pm
I’m in law school now, and to be quite honest.. I only applied to one undergrad school (my home state’s largest public one) and the whole process took about ten minutes and cost $25. I went, for free, and I can’t say that my choice hindered any of my future plans. The opportunities and enthusiastic professors are out there at EVERY school — be genuinely interested and active in your field of study and you’ll go places.
Just remember: 90% of success is showing up.
49.
Margarita | April 5, 2010 at 12:12 am
Elissa, when I read your post my heart ached for your sadness. I knew how much you were looking forward to going to that university. I wanted to soothe and comfort you and make you feel better. I read the responses to your post and I was gratified to see everyone on here trying to do the same. You are so loved by so many, my goodness, you are a treasure. I could read the desire of those commenting to soothe and comfort you too. I know I appreciate you sharing your talents, emotions, memories, values, time and so much more with us. You have people that care for you because you bring us joy through your writing and pictures. You are already a success. Your supporters are right and I agree with them, things happen for a reason. You will grace the university where you ultimately attend. They will be blessed to have you. The person you are will take you with success wherever you go. Your fan. <3
50.
Kristan Roland | April 5, 2010 at 7:20 am
So sorry to hear about the college…..that really sucks. You are so very talented, though, you will end up very successful regardless. I hope you cheer up and have a wonderful week!!
51.
krystle | April 5, 2010 at 8:08 am
I got into my first choice school, but the finanial aid package they offered me wasn’t even close to closing the gap of what my parents/I could afford and what they offered. I ended up going to a different school (more affordable). I’d love to say that the school was the perfect fit for me and I look back on it with fond memories – because I don’t. HOWEVER, while I was at that school I did have 2 amazing things happen to me. 1. I studied abroad, figured out who I was, and even met the man who now, 5 years later, I am engaged to; 2. I formed a friendship with a professor who would push me to educational/professional places I wouldn’t have imagined on my own. I believe that hard work yields great results, but I also believe that there’s a reason we all get put on specific paths.
When I realized that I wasn’t going to be able to go to my ‘dream’ school, I did cry. And cry. And cried some more. But then I decided not to cry anymore. I do think it’s important that I took the time to be upset though – it felt so personal, so wrong, that I needed to get the emotions out. But do remember to stop crying. You (as everyone here has said) are incredibly talented. Which ever school you choose is going to be very lucky to have you. Good luck as you make a decision – remember, it’s a decision for 1 year…you can always make a different one later.
52.
Lauren | April 5, 2010 at 9:30 am
Oh Elissa, I am so sorry. I know it’s tough and this is the last thing you want to hear, but it is going to be okay. You are going to excel and succeed and create a fantastic life for yourself. This is just the beginning of it all.
53.
Tay | April 5, 2010 at 12:33 pm
College rejection isn’t the end of the world. Look at all the people who got rejected yet went on to do great things with their careers. I think MSN had a write up on it like a week or two ago. And, as they say, things happen for a reason. Maybe one of those other schools is exactly where you’re meant to land.
54.
Sis | April 5, 2010 at 2:58 pm
Saturday I was getting ready to make something for Easter Sunday dessert at my parents, and thought about this. Although we like almond, we are bigger fans of lemon, so I substituted lemon extract for the almond extract in the bar, and lemon juice in the icing. I had blackberry jelly rather than jam, and used it the same way. It was wonderful! I’ll eventually try this again with almond extract but just had to tell you the lemon was so good.
Hope you’re having a happier week. It took me 7 years to finish college, and I didn’t even have good enough grades to apply for vet school like I wanted, lol. Hang in there, you’re gonna be fine.
55.
Gabrielle | April 5, 2010 at 4:32 pm
Hi Elissa!
I too am a high school senior, and know exactly how you feel. I was rejected from my two dream schools in 10 minutes on April 1st, and like you I found my kitchen to be so comforting around this time… I channeled my feelings into a new recipe for banana pudding pie :P I know people say it’s not healthy to eat your feelings… but it’s best not to listen to them (and if it’s homemade who really cares?).
Enjoy your senior spring! I love your blog, and I can’t wait to see your future posts! Don’t stress about college you’re clearly very smart and I promise you’ll do wonderfully wherever you go :)
-Gabrielle
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Anna | April 5, 2010 at 7:19 pm
Hey, Elissa! I’ve been reading your blog for a long time, but this is the first time I’ve actually commented BECAUSE………
I, too am a high school senior, and I, too, went through the horror and torture that is called “the college admissions process.” I was accepted to 10 schools, but waitlisted at four, including my DREAM school, Brown. And my other two favorites are probably too expensive.
Brown’s result was crushing. It was like I could TASTE it, I was SO close, ALMOST there. If I had just been born a year or two earlier, I probably would have been accepted. It’s still hard to comprehend and accept. So I don’t have any words of wisdom or life lessons to share, but I thought I’d comment to let you know that……there’s someone else, someone you will most likely never meet, who is feeling what you’re feeling (I was rejected at Yale, but….it’s Yale, so I wasn’t terribly surprised). I’m truly starting to believe that wherever any of us end up will be our NEW dream school. College is what you make of it, right?
And I apologize if this is rude or nosy, but I am ridiculously curious by nature…may I ask what school it was? If it was an Ivy, I’ve decided that they just can’t appreciate awesome, creative, unique people :)
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Elissa | April 5, 2010 at 8:15 pm
Anna – Mine was Brown, too. But I wasn’t even waitlisted. :(
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Anna | April 5, 2010 at 7:21 pm
Oh, and when you talked about the “four months until…. two months…..” it was like reading my own thoughts! Seriously, it got ridiculous this winter. Every Thursday I mentally noted how many more weeks until April 1.
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kamran siddiqi | April 5, 2010 at 7:25 pm
Elissa, I am so sorry. It’s tough, but honestly, from taking a look at your blog and after reading a few posts, you know something? They made a big mistake. A HUGE mistake! They missed out on a great person full of talent and enthusiasm.
Please, look at it that way- they missed out on the experience and the pleasure of having you attend their school; not the other way around.
The plus side to it all is that you shared a great recipe with all of us! I am swooning over these jam bars and am even thinking of making them right now.
When I do make them, I’ll tell you how awesome they turned out! :)
P.S. Great photos, great writing, great site!
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Maria | April 5, 2010 at 7:31 pm
Try not to be down and out. Everything will work out for the best. It may seem difficult now, but keep pressing forward and good things will happen. You are amazing! Hang in there! And the bars look super fabulous!
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Hannah | April 5, 2010 at 7:36 pm
I know how hard it is to get let down like that. It will all work out though, and you’ll end up in a place good for you. :)
The bars look terrific, and your pictures are beautiful.
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alice | April 5, 2010 at 7:39 pm
Someday the school who turned you down will be wishing they hadn’t. You have an amazing future ahead of you and I’m looking forward to following your journey.
63.
Hillary | April 5, 2010 at 7:52 pm
Another excellent read. It’s a “retweeter” : )
Have you decided what school will be 2nd best?
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Jenny | April 5, 2010 at 8:57 pm
Hey, you’re going to do a bang-up job no matter where you are, and we’ll be cheering you on all the way. I’m not gonna say it’s for the best about school – it’s sucks, and if I said otherwise I’d be lying. But you make the best of the hand you’re dealt. I got accepted to my first choice, but my parents couldn’t really afford to send me and I couldn’t bear taking loans out that big. So I chose my state school, got by with no debt and the best education I could get from it. All my hardest lessons came after college anyway. College just taught me to think for myself, and if you’re so inclined, you’ll make it happen.
Chin up, you did great. I’m sure your dad’s not going to know what to do when you’re away and not baking for him anymore.
Jenny
65.
HL | April 5, 2010 at 9:38 pm
I went through exactly what you are going through: I got rejected from what I thought was my dream school senior year, but I ended up going to a school in the same city, loving it and realizing it was probably a better choice for me along the way. I got rejected from its medical school recently, four years later, and it hurt worse the second time because now I am going to be forced to leave a city I adore. But I’m pretty sure it’s going to have the same result as my first rejection did, and I’m pretty sure the same thing will happen to you. Best of luck!
66.
Jaime (Sophistimom) | April 5, 2010 at 9:43 pm
Oh, I am so sorry! That is the most horrible feeling in the whole world. But I am sure eventually, you will find that one of the colleges you were accepted to will be a better place than that (stupid, no good, they’ll be sorry later) college would have been for you.
But I know none of that helps right now.
Wish the jam bars would have helped more. :)
Really, though. You are doing more than most adults accomplish with their time (blogging well is insanely talent/time-consuming, and most people who don’t do it well don’t have a clue). So I say, it’s that college’s loss, and the gain of whichever institution of higher education, that is privileged enough to receive YOUR letter of acceptance.
Cheers.
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Anna | April 5, 2010 at 10:20 pm
I know that nearly everyone who has commented has told you a similar story, and I’m sure you’ve got to be tired of them by now. I couldn’t let this post go by, though, without sharing mine – almost exactly the same situation. First-choice school rejected me after I had my heart set on going there, and I ended up at what was really, if I’d had to rank them, my fifth choice.
I’m a sophomore right now, and I honestly cannot imagine being anywhere else in the world. I love this school and this community and these people I’ve met with all my heart. Everyone’s situation is different and I don’t know how yours will end up, but I wanted to add my voice to the multitude and let you know that more often than not, things work out for the best. :)
68.
Kaitlin | April 6, 2010 at 6:36 am
I know you’ve heard this all before, but I want to put in my two cents here:
I am very sorry to hear that you didn’t get accepted to your college of choice, but I want you to know that I know you are going to have fun and be incredibly successful wherever you go. You are incredibly talented, and I am positive that you have got an amazing future ahead of you.
Don’t let the fact that you aren’t attending the specific school you wanted to attend in the fall bother you. Just be happy for all of the new things you are going to experience in college and all of the amazing people you are going to meet. If you’re anything like me, these next years are going the best of your life, but you’ve got to start by being excited about what’s coming next!
I’m (and I’m sure everyone else is, too) very excited for you, Elissa! You’re going to go far!
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Mr D | April 6, 2010 at 11:17 am
Talk about eliciting a response! Have a great trip, tell yourself that you rock and then tell yourself again! Then know it, then tell yourself again. Then swing by and I’ll tell you.
Peace out
Mr D
70.
Donna | April 6, 2010 at 11:39 am
Don’t let it get you down!! The exact same thing happened to my daughter-she had been accepted to all the schools she applied to but still hadn’t heard from her number one choice. My husband called the school to ask what was taking so long and they told him they had just posted the emails that morning. She did the same thing, went to the internet and bam- We’re sorry but you haven’t been accepted-many many tears ensued. BUT-after a good night sleep and a lot of prayer she realized that maybe that it just wasn’t in God’s plan for her-so she is going to her second choice school, which she now realizes was probably a better choice to begin with. She loved the area, loved the campus and the program-she just had in her mind that she wanted to go to school #1. So everything works out for a reason. Just realize that it has nothing to do with your abilities, sometimes there is no rhyme nor reason for their decisions. ps your cookies look fabulous :-)
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Carrie | April 6, 2010 at 3:20 pm
It sounds like I am late to the – what is meant to be, will be – party, but I am a true believer. I also was rejected from my most favorite college in the world (and worse, my best friend got in!)… or that’s what I thought. My most favorite college in the world ended up being the one I attended. I wouldn’t change up that experience for anything. I can almost guarantee you it will work out, as they say, for the best.
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Anna | April 6, 2010 at 4:15 pm
Ahhhh, the cursed Brown. Thanks for sharing :) What are you hoping to major in at college? Again, I apologize. Terribly curious person. :/
That school was my dream, but maybe it’s just not…meant to be? I feel so cheesy and almost dishonest saying that, because I haven’t come to that “peace” yet. It’s been really hard trying to tell myself that I didn’t really love Brown that much (and it was hard to tell all of my male friends who had their hearts set on meeting Emma Watson). I keep lurking the Brown website, swooning over it, before I tell myself that it’s not going to happen, that they just didn’t want me. I cried, a lot. I still keep thinking, “What would that ONE hook have been….?”
Basically, I’m rambling incoherently right now. It’s just nice finding someone who loved the school like I did and is hurt, too. I mean, the school had 30,000 applications this year–a really freakishly huge increase. I guess we were just born in the wrong year! :(
And, as my mom said, “Demi Moore’s daughter goes there, and she probably paid to get in! Did you really want to go to THAT kind of school?!?” Moms are just trying to help, I suppose. :)
Screw Brown, you are far too awesome for them. I keep telling myself that in five years, I’ll look back and laugh that I even got upset. But right now it still hurts. :/ Uh-oh, tears welling…. :P
I apologize. “Concise” and “sensical” are not in my vocabulary.
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Anna | April 6, 2010 at 4:17 pm
And it’s also hard being told that if you work REALLY hard and “dream,” if you dedicate yourself and are patient, then you’ll reach your goal and get what you want. Except……that didn’t exactly happen for me. Frustrating, as you said so much more eloquently.
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Ana | April 6, 2010 at 5:24 pm
uhm I want to eat! Looks amazing!
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Sara | April 6, 2010 at 5:24 pm
Elissa,
When I stumbled upon 17 and Baking at the beginning of this year, I was immediately drawn in because of my own love for writing and photography. Now I read it all the time! I can’t say I’ve attempted too much baking, but this certainly has inspired me.Your flowing writing style, stunning photos, and thoughtful insights add a special touch to your entertaining, true-to-life posts.
Maybe it’s crazy for me to think that I could relate to you about college, as I have just turned sixteen, but throughout the past two years, I have watched my brother walk a road full of endless applications, lengthily essays, nerve-wracking interviews and tours, and doubt and uncertainty about decisions and the future. As the time for him to make his decision rapidly approaches, I can sense his stress. I may not fully understand until it’s my turn to make the decision, but I want you to know that I think you’ll do great wherever you end up going to school and whatever you end up doing.
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Sara | April 6, 2010 at 5:48 pm
Sorry to keep rambling, but I accidentally clicked the “submit” button before I had finished my already-lengthy post! All I wanted to say was that I feel that you will succeed because of the positive outlook that seems to radiate through all of your posts– this one in particular. I find it very admirable that you find security in the things that are certain to come and hope in the future, however cloudy it may be. Thanks for the optimistic perspective and thank you so so so much for writing! I look forward to reading your posts and will definitely comment in the future (and try to be more concise, like I said, I love to write and tend to get carried away!)! Good luck making your decision and just remember that even though you didn’t get your first choice, it’s possible to flourish in multiple places!
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Current College Student | April 6, 2010 at 7:18 pm
Hey, listen, I’m sorry you got rejected, but would you mind a word of advice from someone who’s a fifth year at a supposedly “awesome” university? I know it’s long, but this is the advice I wish somebody had given me, please read it through…
I’ve read your blog off an on, so I obviously know very little about you, but I would like to give you a few suggestions before you saddle yourself with a ridiculous amount of debt.
First, think hard, really hard about what you want to do in life. If you do not absolutely NEED a college degree, don’t go. Get an Associate’s, go to a vocational school, be an entrepreneur, but PLEASE DO NOT GO TO COLLEGE JUST BECAUSE YOU “SHOULD”! Some people love it, some people hate it, some are forced to go by family pressures, don’t need it later in life, but are still stuck with tens of thousands of dollars of debt…
Second, unless your parents are going to kick you out, take a year off between high school and college. Work, save up and use that time to work through all the prejudices and pressures we get drilled into our heads. If I had done that, I could have saved myself 2 1/2 years of clinical depression; and five years of anger, hurt, hatred and wasted time.
Third, as contrary as it sounds, do not only focus on the academic program of your choice when selecting a college. That was my number one mistake. Make sure you are compatible with the “scene” on campus. I made the mistake of going to an urban, liberal-bigot, snobby, anti-Christian school because they were the top school for what I thought I wanted my career to be…. too bad the general consensus on campus is that people like me (white, Christian, rural, morally conservative) are just messed up and “incapable of logical thought” (seriously, I was told this).
Fourth, I’m going to say something that’s frowned upon nowadays, but if you have any desire for a marriage and kids, by all means, make yourself useful until prince charming comes, but do NOT get in debt just to “advance your career”. If you want to stay at home, for either husband or kids, it’s not fair to foist your debt on your future husband/partner/whoever (Feel free to ignore that if you get a full ride or can just flat out afford college). My mom put all her energy into her career… I needed her at home – she didn’t see what all was going on at school, she didn’t see when I went crazy after losing my grandma, she didn’t SEE ANYTHING because she wasn’t there. And you know what? Her career has NOT MADE HER HAPPY. She’s approaching 60, on antidepressants and hates her job more and more every day… think about what’s REALLY important to you, and don’t worry about what everyone says or the feminist dogma that’s become the status quo. I know too many other “successful” career women who have a loveless marriage, bitter kids and a permanent frown on their faces.
Sorry for such a negative post, but in the name of diversity of opinions, I really thought you should hear it. That being said, good luck with whatever you want to do, as long as it’s what YOU decide, not what the world at large decides for you. :)
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Denise Rambo | April 7, 2010 at 8:56 am
Oh Sweetie … I’m so sorry you didn’t get into your first choice school. I know by now you’re tired of hearing “their loss” and “everything happens for a reason” but the truth is that those things are true. Everything DOES happen for a reason. Everything happens JUST as it is SUPPOSED to. You might not be able to see the reason now and you may not see it for a long time to come but believe me, there IS a plan. Just trust in that. Going to a school that is not the one you had your heart set on may lead to opportunities you never would have had if you’d gone to your first choice. I predict that you have a VERY BIG life in store for you Elissa and I look forward to reading all about it . (((Elissa)))
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marybeth | April 7, 2010 at 11:49 am
Elissa
I am very sorry – very very sorry
>^..^<
80.
Leanne | April 7, 2010 at 12:16 pm
Hi Elissa,
Sorry for the pain and disappointment you are feeling. I believe that we are led down a certain path for a reason. That reason may not be clear now – but eventually it will! You are a bright, well spoken, accomplished young woman. I am absolutely certain that your dreams will come to fruition. Keep your chin up, your future is very bright :0)
81.
Clara | April 8, 2010 at 8:30 am
Hi Elissa,
I love your blog and I was sorry to hear about the rejection. But as all the commenters have said, you have five great choices, and you will end up loving it at one of these schools, I am sure of it.
82.
luckytastebuds | April 8, 2010 at 12:24 pm
I just found your blog and absolutely LOOOVE it’s entirety! You take breathtaking pictures of DELICIOUS looking food!! I love your baked creations and can’t wait to find the perfect recipe to try out this weekend! :)
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luckytastebuds | April 8, 2010 at 12:29 pm
P.s. I didn’t get into my #1 choice college, but I went to…probably my 3rd choice? AND I LOVED IT!!!!!!! College is a wonderful experience, the friendships, the lessons, the classes, even the ones you think are useless! :) If someone who went to school in freezing cold Chicago loved college at a nerdy school (haha I don’t mind it!) with a funky school color…i’m sure you’ll have a BLAST at whichever college you go to in the end. Remember…you did hand pick all the schools you applied to right? :)
84.
hannah @ thepastrykook | April 8, 2010 at 10:30 pm
sorry about college. :( but who knows, it could be a blessing in disguise!
these bars look great by the way (:
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baking&love | April 9, 2010 at 9:20 am
I’m not good with my words, but I really want to tell you to cheer up, Elissa! :) Take care and all the best in whichever college you decide on eventually.
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Ms. Humble | April 9, 2010 at 5:38 pm
It’s not where you study but who you are.
And you’re great! Biology & baking… I want to adopt you.
You know, in a non-stalker friendly food blogger kind of way.
87.
Grace | April 9, 2010 at 8:17 pm
Made the bars yesterday, substituting raspberry jam for the blackberry jam. Once again you have done all the work by passing on a ‘tried and true” recipe. I made an error and baked it in a quarter sheet pan versus half. It took an extra 18 minutes to bake, but boy are they great! This will be a “go to” recipe in the future, and I thank you for sharing.
88.
Current Health Topics | April 10, 2010 at 7:00 am
I am utterly impressed with the fact that you are 17 and making these great foods. It is also impressive that you have such a large following to your blog. The pictures you have provided look very professional. The almond bars look delicious and I will make those, plus substitue half of them with strawberry. Keep up the great work here and good luck with your baking.
89.
cupcakeswin=] | April 10, 2010 at 6:51 pm
I just got back from what seemed like a horrible vacation and i guess this is a tad worse…
I see all these HUGE comments from people that know you our can type fast or something and I think that I’ll leave a smaller one.
~~~
“All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.”
- Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860)
“I’m all in favor of keeping dangerous weapons out of the hands of fools. Let’s start with typewriters.”
- Frank Lloyd Wright (1868-1959)
~~~
hopefully you will thank them for the letter and be polite and stuffs
might make them see that you’re a umm….extraordinarily person?
they probably don’t receive thank you letters from the great ones they’ve shunned… just saying its a good idea.
-amazing crayzen liz-
OH MY GARSH THIS IS A LONG COMMENT!
90.
molly | April 10, 2010 at 9:41 pm
Silly school. They’ve no idea what they’re missing.
(Oh, and you’re spot-on, I think, about life being full of adventure you can’t even yet imagine. Really.)
91.
Sondha | April 11, 2010 at 11:37 am
Aww honey, I guess you can tell we’re all sorry. *hug*
92.
Brian | April 12, 2010 at 8:39 am
I got rejected from the school I really wanted to go to in high school too but I just graduated last December and couldn’t be happier about where I ended up now. I even started graduate school here this semester since I had such a good experience. So don’t worry about college, you’ll be surprised how many good things you don’t recognize as such at first!
93.
amelia | April 12, 2010 at 9:51 am
ohhhh goodness! Tart, sweet, delectable.
Amelia
http://www.ztastylife.com
94.
brownie | April 14, 2010 at 4:55 am
i think i go to your ‘dream school’…and i’ll be totally honest. college is what you make it out to be. although i was overjoyed about getting in, after being here for a few years i’ve begun to realize its just like any other college, how well you do is completely up to you. and also, at times, it’s easy to get lost here due to the vast amount of freedom…
that being said, i’m reaallyy sad that you aren’t coming here and i can’t learn from your great baking skills :( best of luck whenever you choose to go, i’m sure you’ll do great! :D
95.
Karen | April 15, 2010 at 6:35 am
‘Lissa — I’m sooo sorry; I know how much you wanted it. (I just got back in the country, so I just discovered your news.) I have always believed there is a better school out there for you than that one. When you visit your options, I hope you fall in love (with a school, I mean) and forget all about that blip. Success, for you, in inevitable.
96.
TGB | April 22, 2010 at 1:28 pm
Oh, Elissa. You’ve given us yet another opportunity to pause and gaze on something glorious. This time it was biscuits. But it was so much more. Your pictures-oh my. The gentle side-setting sunlight; the way you capture browns and grays and metals; the food and all nuturing ingrdients you “selah” on. I’ve been deeply blessed by your blog ever since I came upon it. I’m working in the desert far away from the familiar and your reflections in word and photo have ministered “home” to me in ways deeper than I appreciated before I came.
I do feel for your university disappointment. I, too, was not accepted to my first choice school. (in ’88!) I can honestly say I’m very glad for how my life turned and continued since then. I, too, am shocked that any school would not be clamboring to have you (someone already making such a beautiful contribution to the world and who can’t be stopped by “haters”) but I also know that with the passion coursing through your veins, it doesn’t matter where you study- You are a life force! Thanks for going for what you love.
97. ThirtySevenWest » Blog Archive » Friday Eats: Mother’s Day | May 7, 2010 at 6:49 am
[...] set on the restaurant thing, or if you have a recipe already in mind for your main course, try out this recipe for Blackberry Jam Almond bars from 17 and baking (one of my favorite new baking [...]
98. Bake: Almond Jam Bars « Seattle Lunchbox | May 24, 2010 at 8:52 pm
[...] Jam Bars (Adapted from 17 and Baking) Recipe barely adapted from Sophistimom Makes a half sheet of [...]
99.
bel | July 9, 2010 at 3:24 pm
hi elissa, i know that you’ve moved on since this post and are due to go to a really great college, it sounds a little cliché, but they’re so fortunate to have you.
ANYWAY, i have been having a series of “one of those days” and i thought that i could lift my spirits by baking these bad boys… i confidently reduced the quantity of each ingredient by 1/4 in order to bake it in a 9″x13″ pan. well, somehow, my batter, dotted neatly with jam, turned out more cake-like than i had hoped for. it was like sponge, and all the jam sunk beneath the surface. they were also probably twice as deep. i was so disappointed with my baking. in my rather irrational mind, it seemed to confirm to me everything i was doubting about myself! they didn’t taste bad, but they definitely weren’t right. and didn’t look beautiful like yours.
what texture should these be? are they more of a cake or a biscuit? and have you any ideas as to what i could be doing incorrectly? i REALLY want to make these as they are intended to be! please help! x
what texture should these be?
100.
Elissa | July 9, 2010 at 4:27 pm
bel – So sorry to hear you’ve been having some bad days. Trust me, I know the feeling, including the baking-to-feel-better and messing up part. As for the bars, they aren’t like a cake or a biscuit… More like a very very thick sugar cookie. Soft, a little chewy, crisp at the edges, somewhat dense. I’m trying to figure out what might have gone wrong. You would have needed to halve the recipe to bake it in the 9″x13″ pan, not reduce it by 1/4, which explains why your bars were thicker. That might also explain why the jam sank to the bottom… then maybe they didn’t bake long enough, which could cause the sponge-y texture? I wonder if it’s also possible if your butter was too soft, which can sometime cause a greasier/softer texture. In any case, I really hope you aren’t discouraged and everything is going a little better. (Not sure if you’ve read this one, but I blogged six months ago during a pretty bad time for me and the recipe didn’t work out. http://17andbaking.com/2009/12/03/striped-peppermint-meringues-with-chocolate-ganache/ Might make you feel better, I hope!)
101.
bel | July 10, 2010 at 4:49 am
thanks for getting back to me. i’m going to halve the recipe, give it another go and see how it works…if failure is the result then striped peppermint meringues it is…though i imagine i’ll do those anyway – they look great. also, everybody loves meringues during the summer, despite the fact that it’s raining here in Ireland!
thanks again and can’t wait for your next endeavor!
(your orange-cinnamon-pecan pastries are all set for breakfast tomorrow – very excited!)
102. Friday Food Fun : SherraLifeLesson.com | September 3, 2010 at 5:38 am
[...] ~ My new favorite, easiest cobbler ever. Added Blue Bell ® Summer Berries ice cream. Yee haw! 2. Blackberry Jam Almond Bars ~ 3 of my favorite things: shortbread, almond flavoring and blackberry jam — so delicious! 3. [...]
103.
Aundrea L. | May 17, 2011 at 9:28 am
Im sorry to hear about your college, but there seems to be plenty of other schools who cant wait to see all your potential and you can always transfer. But this can turn out to be the best thing for you even if you dont realize at the time. I understand where youre coming from, I was denied to a school I really wanted to but got excepted into a school that I love and I know it was for a reason I didnt get accepted into the school of my dreams… Just keep your hopes high and enter your new school with willing arms and make the best out of it (: Fantastic bars!
104. The Trouble with Tasty Treats | July 3, 2012 at 10:39 am
[...] having a reason to buy fun things at the grocery store! i asked my friend alison for the amazing blackberry jam almond bar recipe (she made this for us almost 2 years ago for a gingerbread house making party and i knew i had to [...]
105. Blackberry Jam Almond Bars Overload | AveryToday | December 16, 2012 at 2:14 pm
[...] baaaad (recap of failure here). this recipe was given to me by my friend alison and was inspired by 17 and baking blog. so this time around i was equipped with eating hummus and carrots simultaneously because i [...]