The Apron Goddesses

Post Valentine's Giveaway

2011-02-15T07:01:00.000-08:00

Good day to you all! I hope you all had a great Valentine's Day and had some good quality time with your loved ones. Come see me at Savvy Suzi for a giveaway. It is a $35 gift certificate for CSN Stores. Hope to see you soon.

A Winner! A Winner of the Carolyn's Kitchen Christmas Apron

2010-12-18T16:33:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the delay Apron Goddesses!

I am in the midst of Christmas mayhem and mischief of one kind and another BUT finally got this done.

The winner of this lovely apron . . .

. . . IS TopHat at number 76! Congrats to her on her wonderful win and THANK YOU Carolyn's Kitchen for sponsoring this great apron giveaway.

Merry Christmas Apron Goddesses!

Cyber Monday Giveaway of a Christmas Apron from Carolyn's Kitchen!

2010-11-28T11:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays Apron Goddesses! Yes, I've come out from retirement for a post this month . . .

Carolyn from Carolyn's Kitchen asked me to host a giveaway for the holidays and I could not refuse. Look at this beauty below. The sparkling assortment of Christmas trees on the fabric are cheerful and bright. This Holiday Sparkle Apron is just the thing to wear while entertaining guests this holiday season.

This apron is built in the classic Carolyn's Kitchen fashion with a heart-shaped pocket and ruffles. These aprons look great on every body type. I think they are universally flattering. I do love my zebra striped apron from Carolyn's Kitchen since it looks great on any occasion . . .

If you would like to win this Christmas themed apron feel free to sign up below in the comments after you have visited Carolyn's Kitchen and browsed the selection. Come back to The Apron Goddesses and make a comment below naming your favorite.

For five extra entries into the drawing create a blog post about this giveaway, leaving your permalink in your comment.

Good luck Apron Goddesses!

Contest ends on December 13, 2010.

Psst... Giveaway Coming Up on Cyber Monday

2010-11-15T20:46:00.000-08:00

Hi Apron Goddesses.

How's everyone doing?

Psst. Here's a secret.

There will be an apron giveaway next week. Well, the giveaway is starting on Cyber Monday.

But the sponsor is . . . . . . . . . . . . .

none other than . . . . . . . . . . .

Carolyn's Kitchen!

Be prepared. It's a cute holiday themed apron!

Don't say I did not warn you. :)

Boo!

2010-10-26T10:36:00.001-07:00

Halloween approaches.... Get motivated!!! Here's a special apron made by San-dee!

She's got this apron just right. :)

Now I hope you plan on answering the door for trick-or-treater's wearing something like this!

Good Bye, Farewell! Happy Aproning!

2010-10-05T09:20:00.000-07:00

Well Apron Goddesses, I can not tell a lie. I can not find the time to keep posting on The Apron Goddesses with my busy life schedule.

While I won't be posting any new material, I will leave the blog up for folks to find aprons made by all the fabulous hand made, sewn in the USA, women owned businesses who I want to support. If an apron maker wants to request an ad with a link, I'd be happy to post. Just send an email with your request. (I am amazed at how many visits The Apron Goddesses garnishes even with very limited posting...)

The biggest overall time constraint for me has been my need to market my newly published children's book called Bingo's Big Adventure and make time for writing the next book in the series. Reviews for Bingo's Big Adventure have been very positive and can be viewed HERE on Amazon.

I am running a book promotion at the Bingo's Big Adventure site too.

Books are discounted through purchase on Paypal. Hardback copies are $2 dollars off cover price at $13.99 and softbacks are $1 dollar off cover price at $7.99. Your purchase supports a women owned business right here in the US. Buy a book for your kids, grand kids or as gifts for the holidays! I will personally sign any books ordered and customize as requested.

Since I find my self trying to balance on that narrow fence that life has provided me.... I thought Bingo's balancing act was an appropriate allusion to my current place in life.

Part of balancing is knowing just when to jump off without hurting one's self....

So that's the end of my tail...

I've Been Busy!

2010-09-30T01:32:00.000-07:00

Sweet Pepper Salsa

7 c. chopped tomatoes (about 5 lbs)
3 c. chopped peppers (1 red, 1 yellow, 1 green)
1/2 c. chopped onion
2 cloves garlic
2 tbs. cilantro
1/2 c. vinegar (5% acidity)
2 drops hot pepper sauce

Combine all ingredients in a saucepot. Stir and bring to a boil; then reduce heat and simmer for 10 min. Prepare canning jars as usual. Then ladle salsa into hot jars. Process in a boiling water canner for 15 min. (covering the tops of jars with approximately 1" of water. Yields 3 pints. I double the recipe to can more at a time.

So far I have canned about 7 pints and 10 1/2 pints. It is not at all hot, so if you want hot you will need to add some sort of hot pepper either before or after the processing. Enjoy!

You Too Can Look This Good In An Apron: Apron Goddess Mira

2010-09-20T19:37:00.000-07:00

Well especially if you are the winner of the Cupcake Provocateur apron... see post below this one. :)

This is Mira! She sent in this picture for extra credit in the Cupcake Provocateur giveaway. I am sorry she did not win but we can agree she looks awesome wearing her apron.

Mira wrote, "Here's a pic of me in my "cupcake cutie" apron. Huge fan of Cupcake Provocateur - getting to wear that apron is pretty much the only reason I cook at all!"

There are definitely days that I commiserate with her on this sentiment. Mostly I just don't cook on those days.

The Winner of the Cupcake Provocateur Apron

2010-09-20T19:20:00.000-07:00

Good Monday Apron Goddesses!

It's been quite a month and busyness is a disease which I can't seem to cure.

However, good news is that I did the drawing for the apron from Cynthia's Cupcake Provocateur store and,

Drum roll please.......

Ta da!!

Number 6 is Sue at Country Pleasures!

Congrats Sue! Just send me an email with your shipping information and apron preference from the hostess style and we'll get it off to CP in a jiffy!

Quite a Set UP

2010-09-16T01:09:00.000-07:00

Good Thursday Morning Apron Goddesses!
I feel as if I have been MIA.....I guess I have, it's been about 2 weeks since I have graced you all with a picture and some words to follow.

Suzi here to bring you some men in aprons.

I think they have the right idea. It is quite the set-up. A small toaster oven with what appears to be pots on top for cooking. If only kitchen/dining areas were this simple. These men look thrilled to be preparing a meal for someone special. I even love the fact that they are taking great care by putting on their aprons in order to keep their attire nice and clean.

Boys, you can come cook for me anytime!

Winner of the Hostess with the Mostest Apron

2010-09-07T10:05:00.001-07:00

Good day Apron Goddesses everywhere in Bloggville!

Some how during my bout with viral meningitis and walking pneumonia last month I forgot to do the drawing for the apron giveaway for the Hostess with the Mostest apron pictured below.

How could I forget this beauty? It must have been the feverish haze that was consuming my brain but oh goodness looking at this apron again makes me a little envious of the winner.

The random number generator produced No. 42 which makes Sally the winner of this apron. She blogs at Sally's Spot.

Congrats to Sally! Please email me with your address and I will forward to the Hostess with the Mostest!

Ahrisha is an Apron Goddess in her own "Cupcake Provocateur" style Apron

2010-09-06T20:29:00.000-07:00

This is blogger Ahrisha here with her own Cupcake Provocateur style apron that she made in tribute to the "real" thing. Initiation is the grandest form of flattery and I know that Cynthia would approve wholeheartedly of this darling creation below.

Ahrisha said, "This is an apron I made with inspiration from The Cupcake Provocateur (CP). The first time I saw her aprons on The Apron Goddesses I went crazy for this design. As you can see her aprons are much better fitting and looking than mine, but I wear it in my kitchen and just love it. I love how she edges her seams with bias tape they do look amazing. I'm a real ric rac gal so that is what I used. It is my goal to someday own a real CP apron. They are the Cat's Meow for sure!

If I won an apron from CP, I would wear it only for special dinners with my special someone. Or maybe just holidays. I have made a few aprons for myself and when I find cute printed fabric I immediately think APRON. I don't sew too much anymore but I do like to have a few aprons around."

With your ten extra entries Ahrisha, you have better odds now!!

Thank you for sending in your lovely picture.

Tie on Yer Aprons! It's Tomatillo Time!

2010-09-02T20:31:00.000-07:00

What is this sprawling mess of a vine??

This little beauty of a fruit may be a new one to you, but I wanted to share the abundance of my garden this summer.

My plants have set a prolific quantity of fruit . . . and belong to the Solanaceae otherwise known as the Tomato Family. These gems are more formally known as Physalis philadelphica, or the amazing tomatillo!

The tomatoes and yellow crookneck squash are just keeping the tomatillos company inside my garden harvest basket... The papery part that wraps around the green fruit is the calyx left over from the flower parts. The calyx is the green stuff that wraps around the flowers before they bloom.

Ripe tomatillos will keep in the refrigerator for about two weeks. They will keep even longer if the husks are removed and the fruits are placed in sealed plastic bags stored in the refrigerator.

However, these tomatillos were destined for another fate. The fate of becoming SALSA VERDE!

The recipe for salsa verde is easy. I really never measure making salsa. It's an organic, loose process where I throw together what makes sense. But if you need quantities here's what you can start with:

- The equivalent of three to four cups of tomatillos. Depending on fruit size the total number of tomatillos will vary.
- Large handful of cillantro. Wash and chop or cut up in food processor.
- Three cloves garlic - roasted.
- One large onion - roasted.
- Two or three jalepeno peppers. Deseed peppers and roast. Add more seeds if you like your salsa HOT!
- One lime.
- Salt (1/2 tsp to 1 tsp) and pepper.

Fire roast all veggies except cilantro. Chop onions, garlic, peppers, and cilantro in food processor. Add roasted tomatillos. Whirl around until combined! Add salt and pepper to taste! And VOILA! You have a delicious healthy salsa that you can claim to be the chef!

And don't forget to wear an apron. This can be splattery business!

Back To School Sale on The Bingo Book!

2010-08-27T12:49:00.001-07:00

Hey Ladies, in celebration of back-to-school I am having a SALE on both the hard back and soft back copies of Bingo's Big Adventure. This is a children's book which can proudly say I wrote and published.

I know many of you have children to whom you read, so this slight diversion from aprons may be just the thing for this time of year.

For hardback books the price is currently reduced from the list price by $2.00 and the softback book by $1.00. As Bingo's Big Adventure is already competitively priced that brings the cost down to $13.99 for a hardback and $7.99 for a soft back.

Inside this colorful story of a curious cat you can find an action adventure for your kids. This book is suitable for ages 3 to 8 . . . and adults have been buying it for them selves too.

Apparently, it is making a great addition to coffee tables. Within the pages of Bingo's Big Adventure, there are great photos and a lively story line which introduces NEW words to children.

Bingo said during his last post, ". . . if you want your kids to learn new words, let them hang out with me. If you need some background, there is an excellent study explaining the importance of new words to kids HERE.

Bingo continued to explain, "While I appear casual and relaxed for my daily grooming, I am really thinking of new words that should be introduced to children. I want kids to have a BIG vocabulary. It makes their minds grow!"

Then he thought, "I guess I should have been wearing an apron for this post... Drat. Next time I will ask for a cat sized apron."

"As I lay between the corn rows contemplating what new words I could use, I realize that it was not long ago that I was taller than the corn . . . but I digress."

Then Bingo was heard to say, "I was thinking about what vocabulary enriching text I could use in my next book . . . Hmmmm."

Then going off on a tangent Bingo explained, "I think kids get bored after a while with the same "ole" word set. For most kids my book will seamlessly merge into the family library. For other kids who are not quite ready for my word empowerment, then the adult humans should wait until those kids are a little bigger before letting them dig into my thoughts!

So with all things, parents are crucial in implementing a reading program that broadens children's exposure to new words. If you want your kids to grow their minds, read books like Bingo's Big Adventure to them! It will make reading a treat and expand their vocabulary at the same time.

And remember your purchase supports a women owned business and independent author and publisher. If nothing else check it out and spread the word.

Thanks!!!

Bye for now Apron Goddesses.

I've Been Making Whoopie.....

2010-08-26T01:15:00.000-07:00

Lots of whoopee. Whoopee in the morning, whoopee mid day, and whoopee in the evening. Can't get enough whoopee!

.....Whoopee Pies that is!

I love chocolate chip cookies so I thought I would try these first.

Chocolate Chip Whoopee Pies
by: Sarah Billingsley and Amy Treadwell

Ingredients:
2 1/4 c. all purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
4 tbs. unsalted butter, at room temperature
4 tbs. vegetable shortening
1/2 c. granulated sugar
1/2 c. packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 c. buttermilk
2 tbs. milk
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. white vinegar
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 c. mini chocolate chips

*Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat oven to 375. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
*Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt onto a sheet of waxed paper (I skipped this step)
*In the work bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together butter, shortening, and both sugars and beat until light and creamy, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs and the buttermilk and beat until combined.
*In a measuring cup, combine the milk, baking soda, and vinegar. Add the milk mixture to the batter along with the flour mixture and beat on low until just combined. Add the vanilla and beat on medium for about 2 minutes, until completely combined.
*Using wooden spoon, stir in chocolate chips until incorporated.
*Using a spoon, drop about 1 tbs. of batter onto one of the prepared baking sheets and repeat, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Bake one sheet at a time for about 10 minutes each, or until the cakes begin to brown. Remove from oven an dlet the cakes cool on the sheet for at least 5 minutes before transferring them to a rack to cool completely.

Makes about 48 2-inch cakes.

Classic Marshmallow Filling:

1 1/2 c. Marshmallow Fluff
1 1/4 c. vegetable shortening
1 c. confectioners' sugar
1 tbs. vanilla extract

*In the work bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the Marshmallow Fluff and the vegetable shortening, starting on low and increase to medium speed until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Reduce mixer speed to low, add the confectioners' sugar and the vanilla, beat until incorporated. Increase mixer speed to medium and beat until fluffy, about 3 minutes more.

Personally? I wasn't too thrilled with the Marshmallow Fluff center. It was fine the first day when it set, but the next day? Not so great. Next time I am going to give butter cream filling a try.

Cupcake Provocateur? Yes! It's time for a Giveaway.

2010-08-25T08:38:00.000-07:00

Morning Apron Goddesses!

Are you ready for a new giveaway to double cross your fingers about?

If not, you should.

Cynthia at The Cupcake Provocateur has offered your choice of a hostess apron for the current giveaway.

I happen to have an apron from CP. I use it first out of all my aprons...

I was recently wearing it while "frosting" my son's birthday cake. And YES. I forgot to unplug the mixer before this stupid frosting tasting maneuver. But I lucked out and did not chop off my tongue . . .

But at the Cupcake Provocateur store, I currently am loving these aprons:

This is the Cindy Apron-Rag Doll. You will see upon visiting this store that Cynthia has designed Retro & Vintage Inspired Aprons and Housewares for the Haute` Hostess!

There are cooks aprons, half aprons, children's aprons, gifts and more at The Cupcake Provocateur. With all the gorgeous aprons, it's just a matter of choosing which one you like best that is the challenge.

My next favorite is the Cindy Apron-Homemade Cupcakes in Blue. I don't have any blue aprons so maybe I should think about one of these for my next addition....Hmmm.

With colors to match your mood and whim and a touch of a little more...you will be sure to find just what you are looking for in aprons at this wonderful store!

Now to enter this giveaway you need to hop over to The Cupcake Provocateur and browse the apron selection. Come back here to TAG and make a comment about the hostess apron that you would like to win. That will give you one entry into the giveaway.

You can gain one more entry if you join up or already follow The Cupcake Provocateur Blog!

For five extra entries into the drawing create a blog post about this giveaway, leaving your permalink in your comment. Be sure to mention this in your entry.

And for 10 extra, bonus chances at winning send in a picture of you or a family member wearing an apron and a few words about you and your apron. Give me the dirt! Leave a comment that you are sending in a photograph too! (Contact is above) No headless apron wearers please!! We will write up your "apron-ography" in the weeks to come.

Closes September 9, 2010

Winner....Here winner, winner, winner.... of the Apron from Sugar 'n Spice Aprons

2010-08-23T19:30:00.000-07:00

Hello Ladies!!!

I have a winner of an apron. An apron from Sugar 'n Spice Aprons! It looks like this:

Super cute if I am aloud to say so myself.

And the winner is number 45 as spit out by the random number generator for this drawing. And this means that Maria D at Downright Domesticity is the winner. But seeing as how she is expecting a baby very soon, the apron might not get used right away.

I was over at her blog and saw her husband trying out baby stuff.

He was not exactly using things correctly. But at least he is trying...

Well he made me laugh and I think you might laugh too.

Please go and say congratulations to Maria D and her very funny husband at her blog Downright Domesticity. And you can also wish her best of luck with the new baby!!

A little apron art and poetry

2010-08-20T17:21:00.000-07:00

I was digging through some of my old photos and found this. I believe this photo was taken for a TAG contest last summer. I just love it! It would be great to frame it and hang it in my kitchen someplace.

I also found this wonderful apron poem today and just had to share!

Grandma's Apron
courtesy of cowboyfun.com

When I used to visit Grandma.
I was very much impressed,
by her all-purpose apron,
and the power it possessed.
She used it for a basket,
when she gathered up the eggs,
and flapped it as a weapon,
when hens pecked her feet and legs.
She used it for a hot pad,
to remove a steaming pan,
and when her brow was heated,
she used it for a fan.
It dried our childish tears,
when we'd scrape a knee and cry,
and made a hiding place
when the little ones were shy.
Farm produce took in season,
in the summer, spring and fall,
found its way into the kitchen
from Grandma's carry all.

Wishing you a most wonderful weekend!

Kim -theUngourmet

Apron God and Goddess: Yes it's a Matched Pair

2010-08-17T06:49:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Apron Goddesses! Here's a treat today...it's an apron-ography from a husband and wife with matching aprons. And with the rapidly approaching holiday season this may give you some ideas for Thanksgiving or Christmas. Matching husband and wife aprons anyone?? I am seeing some potential in my own home....

Ellen wrote, "My husband and I live about 400 miles away from my family, and Hubby's family is typically out of the country. We're always traveling for Christmas and we have a busy fall due to college football season. So several years ago we decided we'd just do Thanksgiving at our place with our kids. Whoever shows up eats with us. One time we got Chinese food with Hubby's parents. The year after we first hosted Hubby's parents and brother for traditional Thanksgiving they gave us these matching aprons for Christmas.

The year of this photo my mom came up, and at the last moment we hosted an Indian couple from my husband's work. Plus our then 1-year-old.

Although it's all but impossible to avoid the holiday shuffle, trying to see all parents, siblings, step-siblings, cousins, etc, we've gotten back a bit of the season by declaring we're staying home for Thanksgiving!"

Ellen blogs over at Stuff Growing. Please give her a holler and say good morning. Every body likes to have some comment love.

Thank you Ellen for sharing your photo and story!

Thank you Ellen for sharing your story.

Nature's Goodness

2010-08-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

Good Day Apron Goddesses! Suzi here. We received a four pack sampler of honey from Mohawk Valley Trading Co. I have a bit of a sweet tooth. Love the just about anything that involves sugar! So what better way to enjoy it than in it's rawest and most natural form?

Here are the jars of raw honey, from Mohawk Valley Trading Co. The package contained orange blossom, apple blossom, Adirondack wildflower, and Maine wild blueberry blossom honeys. The flavor's of these honeys are hinted with the flower from which the bees gathered nectar and pollen.

This honey is: Pure, Unpasteurized,Unfiltered, Unprocessed, Unheated, Unblended, Gourmet Wildflower Honey.

This morning I decided to have it on my butter milk hotcakes. I typically dress hotcakes in Agave Nectar, but decided to try out the Raw Orange Blossom Honey. It tasted quite good, complemented the other flavors in the hotcakes. I could taste a hint of the orange trees the bees raided their pollen from. The taste of this one resembles the taste of honey purchased in the grocery stores.

I figured if the Orange Blossom tasted that good then the Apple Blossom must taste just as good. I did what any person who loves honey does....I grabbed a spoon and dipped it right in. The Apple Blossom Honey has a drier taste to it, but I could taste a bit of the apples it was derived from. I am imagining what I might enjoy it with....a cup of tea, an English muffin, cornbread, added to salad dressing and the list goes on. I am quite satisfied with both jars of honey.

Julia prefers to use this delicious honey on her wheat toast while working on the blog in the morning. As you can see by the lack of honey in the jar, this Main wild blueberry blossom honey is very popular in her house. Julia's kids love this stuff too.

These honeys are very delicately flavored and are really great used full strength to accent the foods you eat. We highly recommend the Mohawk Valley Trading Co. honey products as they are very high quality and are of course, made in the USA!!

Lucy is An Awesome Apron Goddess!!!

2010-08-10T15:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, I used three exclamation points in the title, but because of THIS:

This Apron Goddess is Lucy who blogs at Closer To Lucy.

Lucy wrote, "As the self proclaimed Queen of Everything without the palace, the jewels, power, money, or the glam, I’m always in search of ways to indulge my inner Diva; this includes the kitchen. Even if dinner is just a bottle of wine, a night on the town, opening a box of instant dinner, or an entire day making kitchen magic, this (in my mind) countess loves to play dress up; accessories make it all happen, if that means heal, hose, and an occasional crown then so be it!"

Thank YOU Lucy for sharing your Apron Goddess spirit! I love it!

Do You Know What These Are?

2010-08-07T22:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Weekend Apron Goddesses!

We celebrated my son's birthday today and I just HAD to share the cupcakes I made. I love the pirate cupcake liners I found in the grocery store. They really saved me and provided a great base on which to plan the colors of the frosting.

I went all out and did a chocolate and vanilla cupcake, filling part of the liner with each mix. Then I did a cream cheese frosting and mixed orange and white frosting to get a swirl effect.

Those frosting sleeves (frosting applicator tubes) are not as easy to use as you'd think. I made quite a mess, but I persevered. And I think Wyatt loved his cupcakes. Maybe his friends too!

What else do we do at our house during a party?

Well it pretty much comes down to John Deere.

The John Deere lawn mower that is.

We let the kids take turns driving around our property towing the other kids in a little wagon.

Then the next kid gets a chance. They all get to drive a big loop around our five-acre property.

I think everyone had a fun time.

Well that's what I like to think! I liked this photo because if you knew nothing else, based only on the teeth it's easy to age these little women! They've got the six year old smile!

It's an Apron Giveaway Sponsored by Sugar 'n Spice Aprons

2010-08-05T21:14:00.000-07:00

Sugar 'n Spice Aprons has generously sponsored the newest giveaway at The Apron Goddesses, and it is one that will surely make you smile to wear it! This apron is called the Clara and it's half smock, half apron! The Clara is cute and simple, with two pockets on the front, wrap around ties at the waist, and a button closure in the back.

At Sugar 'n Spice Aprons you can find quality retro and vintage inspired aprons which have been constructed to suit every lifestyle and age group. Owner Danielle says, "My aprons are flirty with a retro flair. These are for the lady looking to spice up her daily chores."

Danielle also wrote, "If you're a working mom who needs an apron for function or fashionista who wants one to wear over jeans as a great accessory (oh yeah, people do it!), I am sure that you will find an apron to match your personal style among my creations. All my aprons are original designs!"

My favorite apron from Sugar 'n Spice Aprons is the retro 50's full bib flared Dorothy!

What's yours??

Now to enter this giveaway you need to hop over to Sugar 'n Spice Aprons and browse the apron selection. Come back here to TAG and make a comment about your favorite item. That will give you one entry into the giveaway.

For five extra entries into the drawing create a blog post about this giveaway, leaving your permalink in your comment. Be sure to mention this in your entry.

And for 10 extra, bonus chances at winning send in a picture of you or a family member wearing an apron and a few words about you and your apron. Give me the dirt! Leave a comment that you are sending in a photograph too! (Contact is above) No headless apron wearers please!! We will write up your "apron-ography" in the weeks to come.

Giveaway closes August 20, 2010. Good luck!!

How 'Bout Them Blueberries?

2010-08-05T11:39:00.000-07:00

I like to get magazines that talk about nutrition and fitness. One of them is Shape. While I don't have subscription to this particular one, I will buy one on occasion. The last one I bought was the July issue and it has an awesome, healthy blueberry muffin recipe and I am going to share it with you.

Better Blueberry Muffins

For the muffins:
1 1/2 whole wheat pastry flour
1/2 c. plus 2 tbs. sugar, divided
1/2 c. quick cooking oats (not instant)
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 c. plus 2 tbs. lowfat buttermilk
1 large egg
2 tbs. canola oil (I used applesauce instead)
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 1/4 c. fresh blueberries, washed and dried

For the topping:
1/4 c. blueberry all fruit spread (I used blueberry jam, it's all I had on hand)
24 fresh blueberries, washed and dried.

Preheat oven to 375. Combine flour, 1/2 c. sugar, oats, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, oil, and vanilla. Toss blueberries with flour mixture and stir gently. Line a 12 count muffin pan with paper liners (or spray with nonstick cooking spray). Divide batter evenly; sprinkle with remaining sugar. Bake 12-15 minutes or until tops are set. Remove from oven; top each muffin with 1 tsp. fruit spread and 2 blueberries. Bake 3-5 minutes more or until golden. Cool in pan for 10 minutes and serve.

So tie on your apron and get to baking! You will enjoy these moist little morsels.

Oh-So-Yummy Chocolate Chip Raisin Scones

2010-07-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

I was in the mood for scones today. I just love making scones. They're easy and versatile and make for a warm, inviting breakfast. Add a little fruit and a piping hot cup of coffee or tea and you're good to go. I found a recipe I liked at Joy of Baking. I made a few changes to the original recipe, working with what I had on hand. These are so moist and delicious! I know you'll love 'em too!

Chocolate Chip Raisin Scones
inspired by Joy of Baking

2 cups all purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup cold butter, cut into pieces
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup raisins
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1 tsp vanilla extract
2/3 cup reduced fat buttermilk
eggwash, 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tsp water
raw coarse sugar for sprinkling

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. Cut in the butter. Mixture should resemble coarse crumbs. Stir in the chocolate chips, raisins and walnuts. In a small bowl, whisk together the vanilla and buttermilk and add to the flour mixture. Stir just until combined. Turn out onto a well floured board. Knead four or five times. Hand flatten to 1 1/2 inch thickness. Using a floured glass cut out 8 scones. Place onto baking sheet. Brush lightly with egg wash. Sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Kim -The Ungourmet

Mayra, A Baker from Scratch

2010-07-29T01:52:00.000-07:00

Meet Mayra!
She is the proud owner of a new apron. I think it's adorable!
You can finder her at In Lovely Heels where she tells us that she is going to learn how to bake, from scratch.

"I just received my first apron from Tie-free apron, embroidered, & I'm in love!

I am on a journey to learn to bake, which I call the "I ♥ Sugar Project."

I was missing an apron to keep me motivated & make me feel like I'm slowly becoming a baker.

Aprons make you feel sassy, perky & sometimes you may even feel like a pro. Aprons have a heart of their own. =)"

"Anyways I'm Mayra, a baker from scratch and mommy to Pooh Bear, my 14 month old son."

Sew In Stitches - Apron Goddesses Becky

2010-07-28T07:23:00.000-07:00

Happy halfway through the week Apron Goddesses!

I would like to introduce Becky here wearing her rooster apron while sipin' some soda.

Becky blogs at Sew In Stitches and she is a seamstress extraordinaire! She keeps her hands busy with creations like this one to the right.

Actually, Becky has a store at Etsy called Sew In Stitches where she sells her handmade creations which include baby bibs and burp cloths, tissue holders, coasters and of course aprons!

Becky is a sewing fanatic and loves things with a vintage flair. You could go and and celebrate oldies but goodies at her blog. Stop in and say Hi! Everyone likes some company.

Thanks for sharing your creations Becky!

A cake fit for Goldilocks

2010-07-23T21:44:00.000-07:00

These raspberry chocolate chip concoctions aren't exactly a muffin. They aren't really a cupcake either. I chose to flip them upside down and call them a mini cake. I topped my mini cakes off with a scoop of creamy french vanilla ice cream and a touch of chocolate shavings. This dessert is not too small. It's not too big. It's just right. Goldilocks and Baby Bear would both eat this all up!

Raspberry Chocolate Chip Mini Cakes
by theUngourmet

1 stick of butter, softened
3/4 cup of sugar
1 cup light sour cream
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup all purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
1 cup chocolate chips

Spray oil muffins pans.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flours, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside. Cream the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until creamy. Mix in the sour cream, eggs and vanilla. Add the flour mixture and stir just until combined. Gently fold in the raspberries and chips.

Fill muffin cups 1/2 full. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 18-20 minutes or until toothpick inserted into center of muffins comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool in pans for 5 minutes. Loosen cakes carfully with a knife. Invert onto a cooling rack. Cool completely.

Top with ice cream and chocolate shavings.

Happy Weekend!

-The Ungourmet

Forgive Me......

2010-07-22T13:58:00.000-07:00

.....for not posting sooner than now.

I have been in a bit of a mathematical nightmare and am now coming up for a bit of air. Since you all have a love for aprons I think it is safe to assume that you all have a love for fabric and a flair for fashion. So I give you the Zazzle web site that has many, many things to offer. Something I found you might all appreciate are some shoes with material from two designers.

These shoes are Keds, like the ones we all grew up wearing. Only they have Heather Ross's cricket design on them. Aren't they cute?

Here are another pair by Heather Ross. These ones slip right on, nice and convenient. Made with her Purple Unicorn.

If you like those, then you will also like the next two pairs by Tula Pink. She chose to have hers made with the men's shoes. There is a conversion chart available when you order your size. She has the high top option and the low top option. These are made with her Tail Feather's design.

And these are her Pink Neptune's.

Both designers also have a website if you get the itch to do some stalking. You can find Tula Pink HERE to view all her goodies and Heather Ross HERE to see her blog. Happy drooling and happy shopping!

Happy Summer with a Giveaway by Hostess with the Mostest!

2010-07-19T13:26:00.001-07:00

It's the summer Apron Goddesses...Like you did not know...And we have a wonderful giveaway sponsored by:

You can be the marvelous "Fashionista" next time you entertain wearing an apron made by the Hostess with the Mostest (HWTM). You already know that aprons are the latest fashion craze and everyone's wearing them again! We've known it for a while here.

Owner of HWTM, Lisa says, "They can be used for dinner parties, get-togethers, BBQs, baby and wedding showers, church functions (if you're a server, how cute would that be?) and more than that, a gift for that special someone. Be a DIVA FOR A DAY and treat yourself or a friend to compliments worth a thousands WOWS!"

She also said, "All my aprons are made with special care. All exposed seams are trimmed and sergered (overlocked) so there is no unraveling. All items are made in my smoke and pet free home."

This gorgeous floral half apron is wonderfully constructed with a cute pocket on a slant and a tapered front.

It's the apron that is up for grabs for the next two weeks.

Take a good look!

Now to enter this givaway you need to hop over to Hostess with the Mostest and browse the apron selection. Come back here to TAG and make a comment about your favorite item. That will give you one entry into the giveaway.

For five extra entries into the drawing create a blog post about this giveaway, leaving your permalink in your comment. Be sure to mention this in your entry.

And for 10 extra, bonus chances at winning send in a picture of you or a family member wearing an apron and a few words about you and your apron. Give me the dirt! Leave a comment that you are sending in a photograph too! (Contact is above) No headless apron wearers please!! We will write up your "apron-ography" in the weeks to come.

Giveaway closes August 3, 2010.

PS. Lisa also makes some wonderful pillows... click on picture to see that site as well.

Winner of the Bingo's Big Adventure Books

2010-07-16T19:57:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday Apron Goddesses!

Here's my new book called Bingo's Big Adventure and it was up for grabs for the past few weeks here at TAG.

In summary, Bingo’s Big Adventure is a visually engaging story book for children ages 3 to 8. Preschoolers to beginner readers will enjoy the real-world photography within this story which suits visual learning and motivates independent reading. Kids will be drawn to Bingo’s message of curiosity, his spirit of self discovery, and his inclination to test his own limits.

And . . . I drew four numbers from the random number generator . . .

And numbers 8, 11, 12 and 13 won!

That means anonymous at 8 won, Ladybug Garden at 11 won, Suzi at 12, won and Sara at 13 won. Ladies please contact me with shipping information and I will send out your book!

Congrats!

And please visit Bingo's Big Adventure to see excerpts from the book and the reviews that are coming in. Just click on What People are Saying and you can read about other peoples reactions about this book.

My book would make a great gift for a child's birthday presents or for Christmas (even though it is still a bit far away...) At a low $15.99 for the hardback and $8.99 for the softback, Bingo's Big Adventure is priced for any budget.

Since I am an independent publisher/author, please consider that your purchase supports my woman owned business which is located in the US. Thanks!

Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler

2010-07-15T01:56:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago I bought a Le Creuset Ductch Oven. I LOVE it and found myself asking why I didn't buy one sooner. It is in their new color called Caribbean Blue and it is beautiful. A friend of mine suggested I make a Paula Deen's Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler. I thought that was a great idea.

Isn't she pretty?

Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler
Recipe courtesy of Paula Deen

Ingredients:
2 (16 ounce) cans sliced peaches in heavy or light syrup, or in fruit juice, your choice (I used fresh peaches)
1 pint fresh blueberries, optional
1/2 c. baking mix (recommended: Bisquick)
1/3 c. sugar
Ground cinnamon

Topping:
2 1/4 c. baking mix (recommended: Bisquick)
1/4 c. sugar
1/4 c. (1/2 stick) butter, melted
1/2 c. milk
Cinnamon sugar (1/4 c. sugar combined with 2 tsp. ground cinnamon; store in an empty spice shaker, shake well before each use)

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350

Spray Dutch Oven with vegetable oil cooking spray.

Drain 1 can peaches. Combine both cans of peaches, including the juice from undrained can, the blueberries, if using, the baking mix, sugar, and a sprinkling of cinnamon. Place this mixture into the Dutch Oven.

To make topping: Combine biscuit mix, sugar, butter, and milk in resealable plastic bag. Drop bits of dough, using your fingers, on top of the peaches. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
Place Dutch Oven into preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, until top is golden brown and crusty.

Before the oven

After the oven

Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and it is delish!

So go tie on a apron and get to baking. You won't be disappointed. My kids wanted seconds....it's that good.

Cute Boys in Aprons! Boys can wear aprons too!

2010-07-13T21:20:00.001-07:00

It's so cool that Moms feel free to get their boys in the kitchen these days! And I know that my boy loves it too so this phenomenon is not unique.

These two little guys in their awesome boy aprons are Suzanne's sons. She blogs at Midwestern Gone Idahoan. Give her a shout and say Hi!

Suzanne said, "Here are my boys in their aprons!! They are WONDERFUL helpers (I use that word loosely!!) But all the kids (I have 5 of them!) are wonderful helpers in the kitchen!! My three year old LOVES to dump the baking powder ALL over the floor for some reason!! I always think that I have it up high enough, but he gets it every time!!!! My 11 year old daughter is a GREAT cook!! She made biscuits from scratch yesterday - I just handed her the recipe while I worked with the rest of dinner and the baby!! She did great!!"

Thanks for your photo Suzanne! I love seeing little helpers just like this.

Enjoy Apron Goddesses!

And don't forget to enter the giveaway for Bingo's Big Adventure the children's book at the top of the left sidebar! Click here for the giveaway.

It's Blackberry Season Again!

2010-07-10T20:18:00.000-07:00

Do you have blackberries at your local farmers market yet? I was so excited to spot them at our farmers market today! They are one of my most favorite berries! Here is one delicious way to put a pint...or two of fresh blackberries to good use.

Blackberry Cardamom Muffins
adapted from the Berry Bible

1 stick of butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1 cup all purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp cardamom
1 pint fresh blackberries

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease muffin tins.

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda. Set aside. In a large bowl, cream butter with the sugar. Beat in the eggs. Add the buttermilk and beat until smooth. Add the flour mixture and stir just until blended. Gently fold in the blackberries. Bake for 15-18 minutes until toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool 10 minutes in muffin pan. Remove from pan and allow to cool on a wire rack. Garnish with powdered sugar is desired.

Hope you are enjoying your weekend!

Kim, theUngourmet

A Winner. Here is the Winner of the Apron Giveaway by Crooked Brook

2010-07-07T22:35:00.000-07:00

Oh Apron Goddesses! I have been a bad blogger. I apologize for the delay in posting this winners results for Crooked Brook chef's jacket!
So with no further adieu I present number 38 which put us into extra credit in the drawing and PRICILLA won! Pricilla is the spokes goat at the Maaaaaa of Pricilla and she speaks for Happy Goat Soaps too!

Congrats to Pricilla! I hope she can fit this coat over her hooves.

4th of July Aprons!

2010-07-04T09:35:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th Apron Goddesses!

Here we are, your hostesses, Suzi and Julia wearing 4th of July themed aprons made by Vicky at Apron Frenzy. We love them!

As bad as times may be economically, I must remember that there are other countries on our planet that would not allow the personal liberty that we claim here . . . I am thankful for our rights and privileges. We have a simple wish for you on this wonderful day where we celebrate the freedom that we have in our country.

May your Independence Day be celebrated with the ones you love.
May your hamburgers and hot dogs not burn.
May your husband help in the day's festivities.
May your night end with the memory of sparkling fireworks floating on the wind.

Have a great holiday everyone!

Edible sparklers for 4th of July!

2010-07-03T15:54:00.000-07:00

Hey, the Ungourmet here. I wanted to hop over and wish you all a happy and safe 4th of July and also show you the cutest activity for kids...or grown-ups. These are edible sparklers! Aren't they just the coolest?!

My son helped me make these. They are really simple to put together and so festive.

Edible Sparklers
from Martha Stewart

4-6 oz of chocolate chips
1 package of pretzel rods
red, white and blue sprinkles

Set up a double boiler and slowly melt the chocolate chips, stirring occasionally. Using a pastry brush, brush a layer of chocolate on about 1/3 of the pretzel rod. Cover with sprinkles. Place into the fridge to cool. Voila! Instant fun! ;)

Happy 4th, apron goddesses!

Kim

My Other Job . . . And a Children's Book Giveaway

2010-07-01T06:37:00.000-07:00

Greetings Land of Blog!

I am so excited I can hardly sit to write this post.

I wanted to share this news with all you Apron Goddesses because YOU read to your children. And if you are like me, you are always looking for great new books for story time.

I have worn many "hats" for the past year I can really put on my "author" cap and celebrate! The book I wrote, Bingo's Big Adventure, has arrived back from the printers and look incredible!!

The printers did an outstanding job putting my vision on paper and I am so proud to be able to say I photographed, wrote and published this little gem of a book. This is not to say I did not have help along the way. I had several "editors" who gave me their comments and feedback to refine my story.

The Quick Summary.

Bingo's Big Adventure is a children's story (appropriate for ages 3 to 8), in a 10"x 8" format in either hardback or softback, which follows the path of Bingo, the newest cat on our farm. Bingo is a real member of our family and all photos in the story were taken on our little farm.

In this "Cat's Tale," Bingo explores his new world and tackles adventure with curiosity and a touch of well founded reservation. Bingo meets other animals on the farm including a pesky rooster who challenges his instincts. Vibrant color photographs document the story line and are matched with lively text describing Bingo's thoughts. This story is told from his point of view.

I know that adults as well as children will enjoy reading this book.

The Giveaway

If you would like to win a copy of this book I am offering four (4) books to the winners of a random drawing. To enter the drawing for your own signed copy of my book, visit the Bingo's Big Adventure web site and come back and make a comment about something you learned there. That's all!

And please consider that if you are looking for a new book for your kids or have gifts to give to children in this age range please keep my book in mind. Bingo's Big Adventure would also make a great coffee table book since the photos are quite lively.

With your purchase you would be buying a quality children's book, be supporting a women owned business, and be promoting independent publishing. I would be honored to sign any copies that are purchased on your request.

If you would like to purchase a book you can do so at www.bingoadventures.com to order Bingo's Big Adventure via Paypal. It is also available on Amazon as well.

Good luck!

Giveaway Closes on July 17th, 2010

Raspberry Lemonade Goodness

2010-06-30T02:00:00.000-07:00

Hello Apron Goddesses everywhere.
Suzi here, bringing you a very tasty treat.
These my dear people are Raspberry Lemonade Cupcakes.

Don't they look delightful?
Believe me they are.

Recipe brought to you by The Busty Baker adapted frome Lemon Yogurt Cupcakes in 125 Best Cupcake Recipes by Julie Hasson.
Makes 12 Cupcakes

Ingredients:

1 1/4 c. all purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1 c. granulated sugar
1/2 c. unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 egg
1/2 c. plain yogurt (I used Greek yogurt)
2 tsp. grated lemon zest
3 tbs. freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 tsp. lemon oil or lemon extract (I used more fresh lemon)
1/4 c. raspberry puree

*Preheat oven to 350. Line muffin tin with paper liners. Set aside.

*In small bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, and salt.

*In large bowl, whisk together sugar, butter, and egg until smooth. Add yogurt, lemon zest, and juice, and lemon extract, beating until smooth. Add flour mixture, beating just until smooth.

*Scoop 1 tbs. or so of batter into each prepared cupcake liner. Drop about 1 tsp. of raspberry puree onto batter. Drop another tbs. of batter on top of puree, then another tsp. of puree on top of batter. Swirl with a toothpick to give it the swirl pattern. Bake in preheated oven for about 22 to 25 min. Let cool in pan on rack for about 10 min. Remove and cool completely on rack. Top cooled cupcakes with frosting.

Raspberry Lemonade Buttercream
Makes about 2 cups (16-20 cupcakes)

2 c. confectioner's sugar
3/4 c. unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 tbs. raspberry puree
1 tbs. lemonade concentrate, thawed (Again, I used fresh lemon)
1/2 tsp. raspberry extract (I imaging using the raspberry puree would be fine)
Pinch of salt

*In a bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together confectioner's sugar, butter, raspberry puree, lemonade concentrate, raspberry extract, and salt until smooth.

*Spread frosting on cooled cupcakes and set aside at room temperature until ready to serve or for up to 8 hours.

Raspberry Puree
Joy of Baking

2 12oz. bags of frozen unsweetened raspberries
1/2 c. granulated sugar
1 tsp. freshly squeezed lemon (optional)

*Thaw unsweetened raspberries in large fine meshed strainer suspended over a large bowl. Once the berries have completely thawed, force juice from the berries by gently pressing berries with back of large spoon. All that should remain in the strainer is the raspberry seeds. Throw away raspberry seeds. Stir in lemon juice and sugar to the raspberry juice.

*Store covered in the refrigerator up to a week or freeze up to a year.

*Makes approximately 1 3/4 cups.

Join Us At The Farmer's Market . . . A Pictorial Essay

2010-06-26T10:52:00.001-07:00

We made it to the weekend once again . . . Julia here, and there are some weeks when I wonder how it all happens. Following up on Suzi's post about her fruit devouring kids, I wanted to show and tell about our Farmer's Market.

Going to our town's Farmer's Market is always fun. I love the view of our local landmark hill that sits to the west of town. It's named for a big bull and affectionately known as "El Toro." The City just finished renovating this street to accommodate an expanded vendor area and it is nice and roomy for walking. There are two wings of the market. The 2nd aisle (not pictured) is packed and tight and it's easy to loose kids in the crowd.

I make it to the Farmer's Market about twice a month. Every other weekend seems just about right for our family. I get more seasonal fruit like peaches, apricots and cherries, then stock up on the perennially present vegetables like broccoli, onions, and carrots.

This vendor was selling beautiful cauliflower-broccoli crosses called Romanesco. It is the pointy looking head immediately adjacent to the white colored cauliflower.

Here's the Romanesco up close and personal (left side of photo).

Meandering down the market the boys were fishing around for bread bites at the baker's booth.

The fresh fruit offerings are tremendous. The cornucopia of red colored fruit is amazing and we always take home our fair share.

Another sport of the children is "taste testing" the fruit. They go into the vendors stalls and sample till they are ready to explode.

My son Wyatt, the fruit hunter, put his sights on his prey.

His cousin Adam, helping out kindly with his little cousin Ella. Ella is always saying, "Sharing is caring."

Then the flower vendors make my eyes pop with happiness seeing all the colors of the rainbow and more. The more being the sneaky kid trying to hide from the crew.

White delphinium and huge sunflowers would look great on my kitchen table . . . the only problem is how my kids accidentally knock the flowers over. Still. So, I have to wait a few more years to get flowers like this on my table.

The statues located at the Farmer's Market are historical figures waiting for the train. The tracks are located adjacent to the market so it fits in perfectly.

And of course kids must turn what is elegant and charming into filth and pestilence with their fake nose picking of the statues. Is nothing safe from our horde? I guess not.

Have a great weekend Apron Goddesses and be sure to get out to visit your local farmer's market soon. You will love it. I promise!

Apron Goddess Mommy and Jr Apron God!

2010-06-24T08:17:00.001-07:00

Good morning Apron Goddesses in the Land of Blog! It's been a busy summer around the mini farm we call home.

However, I have an apronography for you to see!

Susan and Jayson Halteman (age 5) sent in their photo wearing their vintage aprons. Susan wrote, "Now I'm sure you get plenty of females in aprons, but how about a boy?"

I think, "Yes, boys can wear aprons too!!" My son has been seen several times wearing them here on this blog so aprons cross gender boundaries regularly here and elsewhere.

Susan explained, "We were getting ready for our Father's Day barbecue and since I had on a sweet pink cotton apron to match my pink Swirl dress, he wanted to wear one as well. My apron is printed cotton with pink lilac blossoms, while his is a cute blue & white pieced bunny rabbit with embroidery. I love how the ears snap together in the back to make up the chest part of the design. Both of these aprons were inherited from family members and date to the 1940s or 50s. The child's apron in particular was worn by my mother when she was a girl, in the mid-1940s."

You can visit Susan at Practice in Time. It's about her adventures raising a vintage family in a modern world. She writes regular features on cooking and decorating with found treasures; all with an eye toward blending vintage values with modern needs.

Farmer's Market

2010-06-23T21:08:00.000-07:00

My kids love fruit.
Now that soccer is over we can get the freshest of fresh fruits.

As you can see Luke is enjoying his Farmer's Market plum. I can buy $50 worth of fruit at the Farmer's Market and it will be gone by the end of the next day. It kills me to see it go so fast, but at the same time I am happy to see it go so fast. So now we are looking forward to this Saturday because we can make it part of our regular routine. The best part for the kids....they get to sample all the fruits as we pass by the stands. Then they tell me what was best so that I can get exactly what they want and like. I ♥ the Farmer's Market.

Now for the rest of you.....go find a local Farmer's Market. Trust me, you will be happy you did. Have a great day!

Scones for Dad's Day

2010-06-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

Are you doing something special for dad's big day? Are you tying on your aprons and whipping up a little breakfast in bed or maybe a nice brunch? I was working at the catering company the other day and one of the gals was making a batch of the most amazing strawberry pistachio scones. Well, my husband loves pistachios so I knew immediately that I'd be baking up some of those for Father's day. I don't know what exactly went into those scones so I came up with my own version.

Strawberry Pistachio Scones
by theUngourmet -inspired by Chef John

2 1/2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1/3 cup sugar
4 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp salt
1 stick of cold unsalted butter
1 egg
3/4 cup half and half
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries. (Trader Joe's are wonderful!)
1/2-3/4 cup roasted unsalted pistachios

softened butter
raw sugar

In a large bowl whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Cut in the butter. In another bowl whisk together the egg, half and half and vanilla. Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture. Mix to combine. Fold in the strawberries and pistachios. Roll out dough to a 1 inch thick circle on a well floured board. Cut into 10 equal pieces (like a pie). Brush with softened butter and sprinkle with raw sugar. Bake at 375 degrees on a parchment lined baking sheet for about 15 minutes until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.

Happy Dad's Day from the Ungourmet!

Quick and Easy

2010-06-17T01:19:00.000-07:00

This has got to be the cheapest and easiest entertainment. I only do it when the boys have guests over for the afternoon.

When the kids need a little down time from playing hard with their friends I break out the sugar cookies, frosting, and sprinkles. They each get their own small bowl of frosting and choice of sprinkles to decorate as they please. It's quick, easy, and the boys love it.

So tie on your apron and get to baking! It's summer and you know you have a few play dates headed your way.

Winner of the Embroidered Apron from Dirty Dish Towels!

2010-06-16T20:15:00.001-07:00

Happy Wednesday Apron Goddesses Everywhere!!

Hope you are busy enjoying this summer. I have been the ~~indentured servant~~ stay at home mom at home with my out of school kids so it's been a little rough around here.

I wanted to post the winner of the Dirtydish Towels, LLC. giveaway before the summer ran me over and hung me out to dry.

After putting the numbers in the random winner generator, it spit out:

Da da da!!!!

27

Which corresponds to:

S.

Who said...: I just LOOOOVE the Hot Buns!! Cracks me up!!!
Congrats to S. Please send me an email with your apron preference.

Thank you Dirtydish Towels, LLC. for sponsoring this wonderful giveaway! Thanks for making me smile every time I visit your site! Good work ladies!

Chefs Coat Giveaway by Crooked Brook

2010-06-10T06:16:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Apron Goddesses!

I have something special to offer you for this giveaway . . . it's a gorgeous chefs coat made by Crooked Brook!

Crooked Brook specializes in custom kitchen apparel such as these chefs coats and aprons. They add embroidery to their creations to give them an extra touch of beauty. This jacket includes piping and Easter lily embroidery and the total value of this combination is a retail value of $238.00. The jacket for giveaway is a size 6 which corresponds to 34-26-36, so if this beauty would not fit you, win it and give it to someone you love! I think it would bring a huge smile to the face of the lucky woman who gets to wear it.

This is just one example of the fine workwomanship that can be found at the Crooked Brook store.

This bib style apron is another one of my favorites. The extra detail in the embroidery is wonderful! It has pockets and piping which are add-ons to the basic pattern.

Custom choices are the rule at Crooked Brook. Other options on all their aprons include applique or tacktwill (sewn on lettering).

Women's Bib Aprons are fitted bib aprons that are available in a full range of sizes, can be made in any length and in any of the fabrics offered. Worn at home in the kitchen for cooking, gardening or house-work. The Crooked Brook line of aprons is used by butchers, grocers, waitresses, female bartenders, servers, chefs, cooks, kitchen and counter workers.

Now onto the specifics about the giveaway for this week!

Visit Crooked Brook and browse the apron selections.

Come back here to TAG and make a comment about your favorite item. That will give you one entry into the giveaway.

For five extra entries into the drawing create a blog post about this giveaway, leaving your permalink in your comment. Be sure to mention this in your entry.

And for 10 extra, bonus chances at winning send in a picture of you or a family member wearing an apron and a few words about you and your apron. Give me the dirt! Leave a comment that you are sending in a photograph too! (Contact is above) No headless apron wearers please!! We will write up your "apron-ography" in the weeks to come.

Giveaway closes June 25, 2010.

Good Luck!

Happy Summer Apron Goddesses!

2010-06-08T19:00:00.000-07:00

Summer feels like it's officially here!

Our children are out of school tomorrow. Du da du dum...

But the weather has been gorgeous in CA and I can only celebrate the season with a picture of my daughter wearing her favorite apron while out playing today. I love using them when she is wearing her "cute" clothes outside. If not protected they resemble mud colored tie-dye.

Why does she have this special look on her face?

It's because of her silly brother of course!

News: Tomorrow is the beginning of another great apron giveaway! Check back then for details.

Rhubarb is my new best friend!

2010-06-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

Greeting from the Ungourmet-ville! I recently rediscovered rhubarb. I remember eating it once in a pie when I was a kid. I don't think I cared for it much. I've been eying it a farmer's market lately and decided I'd better give it another try. I found a recipe that looked good over Martha's way and tweaked it to suit me. I have to tell you, this is one honey of a cake! It's so darn moist! I love the combination of the rhubarb and blueberry. Give this one a shot when you have time, I know you will just love it!

Blueberry Rhubarb Honey Cake
by the Ungourmet -inspired by Martha

2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 1/4 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp vanilla extract
juice from 1/2 lemon
3 tbsp honey
1 cup chopped rhubarb
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

cinnamon and sugar mix

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl combine the flour, soda and salt. In a small bowl combine the buttermilk, vanilla, lemon juice and honey. Using an electric mixer beat the butter and sugar until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat in the egg. Add the flour mixture alternating with the buttermilk mixture until combined. Fold in the rhubarb and blueberries. Spread batter into a spray oiled 13 x 9 baking pan. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar mix. Bake at 350 for 35-45 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack prior to cutting into squares.

Yummo!

Family Favorite Pancakes

2010-06-03T02:08:00.000-07:00

Sour Cream Cottage Cheese Pancakes are a favorite here in this household.
Here is a look at the ingredients.

These pancakes are very easy to make.

Can you see the lumps in them? My oldest calls them Hot Pancakes because they retain their heat and don't grow cold while eating them.

I put the strawberries on the side because I don't like them in my syrup. You know one of those quirky things.

Ingredients:

1 c. sour cream
1 c. cottage cheese
1 c. flour
2 eggs
1 tsp. salt
1 tbs. sugar

Mix all ingredient well and put on a hot griddle. Flip when they look a bit firm on the edges and are lightly brown on the bottom. Garnish with butter, syrup, and berries......or whatever you like best.

For the Dads and Grads in your Life

2010-05-27T01:26:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Apron Goddesses, Suzi here to greet all of you lovelies. Hope you all have a GREAT day. Thought I would give you at least one idea for Father's Day and for the ones in your life who are about to graduate and embark on life.

For those of you who have husbands who LOVE to cook, BBQ, bake, etc. why not consider a personalized apron? They are fun and creative.

For the graduate? Send them off to college or out in the real world with a wonderful reminder of where they came from......a personalized apron.

All you have to do is upload a favorite picture, yours or theirs, and wallah! A special apron for the ones you love.

Go check them out at Bags of Love. Of course they have many other items that can be personalized, but this IS a site all about aprons. So, what are you waiting for? Go see what they can do for you.

Do You Have A Dirty Dishtowel? You're Gonna Want One!! Yep, it's an Apron Giveaway . . .

2010-05-24T02:00:00.000-07:00

Good Monday Morning!!!!

Apron Goddesses, it has been slow here lately. Of this I am painfully aware. However, we've an awesome giveaway this week from Dirty Dishtowels LLC.

I. Love. Their. Store.

"What is this?" you say. . .

I said I love Dirty Dishtowels.

Every time I got to their site I leave smiling. These ladies make me laugh and remember to have fun again when I am sinking into the pits of apron despair.

This "Bitch" apron in pink and black to the left is adorable. I know I am sick in some ways, but I can admit that the embroidered sayings that occur on the aprons and dish towels at Dirty Dishtowels LLC crack me up. I know it's probably wrong and some of you ladies may be offended. But sometimes wrong is right.

The ladies at Dirty Dishtowels specialize in saucy sayings which are embroidered on their white dish towels and aprons. And they have a saying . . .

"Because everyone gets a little dirty sometimes."

This half margarita apron to the right also is oh so cute in style. The ladies at DDLLC have "naughty aprons" like these to purchase. The extra swagger is in the embellishments with these aprons. You can custom order any of your favorite sayings from the dishtowel collection on to one of their aprons with pockets. Then it will be embroidered on the pocket for you to wear and enjoy.

Here's another sweet little full apron with a festive floral theme. I don't mind a little margarita while making burritos or fajitas. Nope not one bit.

Now it's time for the giveaway sponsored by DDLLC. You can choose either the pink and black polka dot half apron "Bitch" style or the half margarita apron, as shown above, for your canvas. Then you may pick your favorite embroidered embellishment to go on the pocket.

You will need to go and visit the Dirty Dishtowels LLC store and browse the selection. Come back here to TAG and make a comment about your favorite saying embroidered on the dishtowels. I.e. a saying that you would like on your apron if you win. That will give you one entry into the giveaway.

For five extra entries into the drawing create a blog post about this giveaway, leaving your permalink in your comment. Be sure to mention this in your entry.

And for 10 extra, bonus chances at winning send in a picture of you or a family member wearing an apron and a few words about you and your apron. Give me the dirt! Leave a comment that you are sending in a photograph too! (Contact is above) No headless apron wearers please!! We will write up your "apron-ography" in the weeks to come.

Giveaway closes on June 8, 2010.

Good Luck!!

Can't keep my hands off of these granola bars!

2010-05-22T21:10:00.000-07:00

Hey Apron Lovers! It's the Ungourmet...again. Well, today I tied on my favorite apron and made my first ever granola bars. I have to tell ya, these are so darn good I can't keep my hands off of them. They are a nice combination of chewy, crispy, nutty, chocolaty, coconut-y goodness! Homemade granola bars are WAY better than anything from the grocery store and they are so easy to make, too. I can't wait to whip up another batch of these babies!

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Coconut Granola Bars
by theUngourmet inspired by Salba Smart

3/4 cup creamy (the kind you stir) peanut butter or other nut butter
1/2 cup plus 2 tbsp honey
3 cups rolled oats
2 cups crispy rice cereal
1/2 cup roasted unsalted sunflower seeds
2 tbsp golden flax seeds
2 tbsp Salba seed (optional)
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs

Preheat oven to 325. Spray oil a 13 x 9 inch baking dish. In a small pan heat the pb and honey over low heat until melted, stirring often. Cool. In a large bowl mix the oats, cereal, seeds, coconut, chips, cinnamon and vanilla. Gently stir in pb mixture and coat evenly. Slowly mix in the eggs. Using your hands, gently mix everything until evenly coated. Press into prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake for 20-30 minutes until edges are lightly browned. Cool completely in the pan prior to cutting into squares.

These are so scrumptious, it's hard to believe they are actually good for you!

Have a great week!

A Winner!! The Farmer's Wife at Home. And I'm sort of better . . .

2010-05-21T21:04:00.000-07:00

Good evening Apron Goddesses! Julia here.

I am still suffering from a variously disturbed stomach. I am not overly nauseous in the mornings. But after eating, especially in the evening, a certain unsettled stomach takes over. They say the virus can last for up to 10 days. I am praying that after day 10, I am miraculously back to normal!! I guess I must be thankful that I am not praying to the porcelain gods any more though.

But I wanted to post a winner to the giveaway from the Farmer's Wife at Home and I ran the numbers......

So to get to the point, I can say that number 5 was drawn by the random number generator AND

Tara Beaulieu at Scarborough Seashells is the winner! Tara said, "Oh my gosh that "chicken or the egg" apron is adorable, I'd love to own that! Great giveaway!"

Congrats Tara! Please contact me and we'll coordinate with the Farmer's Wife at Home for your wonderful apron.

Jizo Statues

2010-05-20T01:49:00.000-07:00

Hi all, Suzi here. Julia did a post a while back regarding rocks wearing white aprons. Well I found more pictures depicting the same thing. Since I found so many pictures I had to look into it. These are called Jizō statues.

According to Wikipedia:
Jizō statues are sometimes accompanied by a little pile of stones and pebbles, put there by people in the hope that it would shorten the time children have to suffer in the underworld. (The act is derived from the tradition of building stupas as an act of merit-making.) The statues can sometimes be seen wearing tiny children's clothing or bibs, or with toys, put there by grieving parents to help their lost ones and hoping that Jizō would specially protect them. Sometimes the offerings are put there by parents to thank Jizō for saving their children from a serious illness. Jizō's features are commonly made more babylike to resemble the children he protects.

As he is seen as the saviour of souls who have to suffer in the underworld, his statues are common in cemeteries. He is also believed to be the protective deity of travellers, and roadside statues of Jizō are a common sight in Japan. Firefighters are also believed to be under the protection of Jizō.

So, now you know. There is a story behind rocks wearing aprons.

I've Been A Little Incapacitated. . .

2010-05-16T21:05:00.000-07:00

Greetings all! Julia here. Sorry no posts. I've been working out of town, then was hit by a big nasty rotovirus. Recovering. . .

If you want the brief details you can check out my Dirty Laundry here.

More aprons coming later this week. :)

Poppy Seeds Aren't Just For Muffins!

2010-05-15T18:07:00.000-07:00

Hello fellow apron lovers! It's the Ungourmet, bringing you another fun and easy recipe. I love making pancakes for breakfast on the weekends but sometimes I get bored with the same old boring recipe. I decided my pancakes needed a little jazz and pizazz!!

Lemon Poppy Seed Pancakes
adapted from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition

Serves 4

1 large egg
1 1/3 cups almond milk (or soy milk)
1 tbsp lemon zest
juice from 1/2 a lemon
1/4 cup canola oil
1 3/4 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1/4 cup almond meal
1/4 cup poppy seeds
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

Mix egg, milk, zest, lemon juice and oil in a medium bowl. Mix flour, almond meal, poppy seeds, baking powder and salt in a small bowl. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until moistened. Using 1/4-1/2 measuring cup drop batter onto a lightly oiled griddle and cook until both sides are golden brown.

Serve with fresh berries and fresh whipping cream (I put a bit of honey and vanilla into my whipping cream.).

These pancakes were such a nice change from the ordinary!

Hope you're all having a great weekend!

Reminder to Enter the Giveaway From Farmer's Wife at Home!

2010-05-10T10:33:00.000-07:00

Ladies there is still time to enter the "choose your favorite" apron giveaway and promotion for the Farmer's Wife at Home!

These cute and original aprons are darling and would be a great way to stay clean and look adorable in the kitchen!

Be sure to check out the Farmer's Wife at Home Etsy store and enter the giveaway HERE!

Happy Monday!

Flowers for Mother's Day

2010-05-08T22:35:00.000-07:00

Hey all! It's me, the Ungourmet. I wanted to pop over and wish a very Happy Mother's Day to all you apron lovin' moms out there! This photo is from a recent trip my mom and I took to the tulip festival. We had such a lovely time together and can't wait to go again next year!

I'd like to pass these flowers on to you! I have them on my desktop right now and you are welcome to do the same if you like.

Have a fantastic day!!

Spotlight: A Beautiful "Green" Apron

2010-05-07T02:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday Apron Goddesses Everywhere!!

It's Julia here, and I'd like to spotlight a beautiful apron creation that was made by using recycled materials. This darling apron was made by Janet over at The Empty Nest, and she created it by hand using fabrics and materials which had a former life doing something else. . . Can you believe it?

Janet said, "My 'new' apron is almost entirely fashioned from 'old' fabric. I bought the white cotton linen skirt ages ago at my Salvation Macy's. The second I saw it I knew it was destined for a more beautiful life. It originally was all white, but I hand painted the bottom flounce a pretty watery blue."

Then she continued, "I found a lovely thrift shop, where I immediately spotted a whole rack of fabulous antique embroidered runners, hankies and doilies." We can see those got put to use splendidly!

So my only question is WHO could wear this and get it dirty??? Not me.

Well, Janet does not have to worry since she SOLD it on her Etsy store within 5 minutes of listing it. Imagine that. To see the whole story hop on over and see the full write up in Janet's words HERE, plus there are more close up photos to inspect!

Great work Janet! You are definitely upholding the Apron Goddess spirit with sewing skills that produced this apron!

Cubes of Fun for Everyone

2010-05-06T01:47:00.000-07:00

See this guy? He was one of the 2 culprits that led me to the LEGO store (not that what they did makes it okay). Because of him and his middle brother, I found these fun ice cube trays. He and Trevor thought it would be good fun to destroy their youngest brother's LEGO man's head. Smashed it! Trashed it! Destroyed it!

When I was looking around I found these fun LEGO man ice trays. The tray is a nice blue silicone ice mold. I took them home and immediately made some ice.

As you can see, Luke is thrilled by them and can't wait to pop them in his mouth.

Up close, a little more personal.

When the ice cubes are finished I think I am going to try some juice, maybe melt some chocolate for a tasty treat in their lunch. The possibilities are endless. What will you make with your fun ice trays?

Miss Cherry Bubbles is an Apron Goddess!

2010-05-04T11:15:00.000-07:00

I have a daring and forward thinking Apron Goddess to show you today. She is one who is not afraid of a little whip cream. Sneaking a spoonful or a spatula full is apparently not on her "Don't" list.

OK I HAVE snuck some spoonfuls of whip cream before, but I'd never be caught on camera doing so.

I secretly wish I was as bold and unabashedly fearless.

I think Miss Cherry has the great and wonderful spirit which embodies an Apron Goddess. Don't you agree??

Miss Cherry Bubbles wrote, "Here is my apron photo for extra bonus chances to win your fabulous giveaway :) This is from Thanksgiving and I'm wearing a vintage half apron to protect my dress from homemade whipped cream."

Thank you Miss Cherry Bubbles for your contribution to The Apron Goddesses!!!

Please go say hi to MCB at her blog Past Life. We all like some new visitors to say Hello!!

A bit of Hawaiian sunshine for breakfast

2010-05-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Hey, hey, the Ungourmet here. Lately, I've been dreaming. Dreaming of hanging up my apron and jetting off to Hawaii for a little sunshine and relaxation. Unfortunately, all of my fun money goes to my kids. Darn! Well, I'll have to settle for the next best thing...a bit of Hawaiian sunshine in my breakfast bowl (or plate).

I love baked oatmeal for breakfast. There are so many different combination possibilities. This one is bursting with sunny, tropical flavors like pineapple, coconut and banana. Mmm!

Baked Hawaiian Oatmeal
by theUngourmet

2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup all-bran cereal
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
dash of salt
1 large egg
2 tbsp of melted butter, cooled to room temperature
1 tsp fresh grated ginger
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp coconut extract
1 12 oz can evaporated milk
1/4 cup raw honey
1 cup fresh pineapple, roughly chopped
2 ripe bananas, diced
1/2 cup sweetened, flaked coconut

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly grease a 9 inch round (or square) baking pan.

In a medium bowl combine the oats, cereal, brown sugar, baking powder and salt. In a large bowl combine the egg, butter, ginger, vanilla, coconut extract, milk, honey, fruit and coconut.

Stir the oat mixture into the egg mixture. Pour into prepared baking pan. Bake for 35-45 minutes until center is fairly firm and top of oatmeal is golden brown. Allow to cool for a few minutes before cutting. Top with vanilla yogurt if you wish.

Give this vacation in a bowl a try soon. I know you'll love it!

I've Got the Gadget for You!

2010-04-29T01:48:00.000-07:00

I was making Kim's Strawberries N' Cream Cupcakes when I realized that this would be the perfect gadget to tell you about.

Can you see it? It is perfect for zesting lemons! In fact it's called a Microplane Zester. If you don't have one you need to go get yourself one.

See how fine it zests the lemon? To perfection! You can't even tell that there is lemon zest in the recipe. Go take a look here if you are interested in one.

Choose Your Favorite Apron Giveaway From the Farmer's Wife

2010-04-25T20:36:00.000-07:00

Oh, what a lovely apron giveaway has come to us this week from the Farmer's Wife!

A little about The Farmer's Wife - At Home, all items (excluding vintage linens) are handmade in a rural Illinois in-home studio. Care is taken to produce quality items the old fashioned way, by hand. Most of the sewing is done on a 1950's two-toned turquoise sewing machine named Beverly. And recently two additional vintage sewing machines have joined the stable - a lavender Fleetwood and a PINK Atlas.

Owner, Suzanne was taught by her grandmother to sew and grandma was a stickler for details. Suzanne freshly starches and presses all aprons before shipping.

At Farmer's Wife there are several "apron product lines."

If you see the phrase "Green Line" in the description, it refers to the aprons which are constructed from repurposed men's dress shirts, paired with designer fabrics and trims. Ii.e. aprons are made from repurposed and new materials.

If you see the phrase "Repro Apron Line" then this is Suzanne's line of aprons made from patterns created from her vintage collection. I.e. aprons are made from all new materials.

Now to the giveaway . . .

Visit the Farmer's Wife Etsy store and browse the selection. Come back here to TAG and make a comment about the apron you would like to win. That will give you one entry into the giveaway.

For five extra entries into the drawing create a blog post about this giveaway, leaving your permalink in your comment. Be sure to mention this in your entry.

And for 10 extra, bonus chances at winning send in a picture of you or a family member wearing an apron and a few words about you and your apron. Give me the dirt! Leave a comment that you are sending in a photograph too! (Contact is above) No headless apron wearers please!! We will write up your "apron-ography" in the weeks to come.

Closes midnight May 11, 2010.

A Bitt Of Raw is an Apron Goddess

2010-04-22T21:06:00.001-07:00

This is Bitt at A Bitt of Raw! She has a blog to document her life and her path to better health. One big part of her path to wellness is the consumption of a raw diet rich in RAW veggies and fruits.

At her blog A Bitt of Raw, Bitt provides enumerable ways to eat healthy, conserve resources, and recycle those bits of things you may not think are useful any more.

And she even has a recent post about CHOCOLATE!!! Spicy chocolate! Bitt tells you why it's good for you too, so I suggest you find some raw in your life cause it can include goodies you thought not possible. Oh, I forgot to mention her post on Moon Pies too.

You must check it out. I MUST be craving chocolate tonight. *Sigh* and there is none to be found in my immediate vicinity.

Thanks for sending in your photo Bitt! You are a great Apron Goddess.

Winner of the Apron from Quilt-A-Treasure

2010-04-18T20:33:00.000-07:00

Good Evening Apron Goddesses!

I'm just doing some house cleaning so to speak, finished a pile of dishes by hand. We don't have a dishwasher and I often lament that my hands suffer the perpetual wrath of water and soap. I swept the floor of all the dirt crumbles and hopped on the computer, then remembered I needed to announce the winner of the apron from Quilt-A-Treasure!

I just visited Quilt A Treasure and they have a some new aprons up at their Etsy store. I do love their color combos. . .

However, back to this drawing. Using the random number generator I processed the data and POP! Out came number 29!

That gives us:

Leanne at Life as a Wife who said, " I love the polkadot date night apron. Adorable!!"

Well she can now look adorable too.

Congrats Leanne!

These mini cheesecakes are a snap!

2010-04-17T22:09:00.000-07:00

Hey all, the Ungourmet here. A couple of days ago we celebrated the birth of my dear husband. I wanted to make him something extra special for dessert. I decided on cheesecake since he loves it so much. It was my first time making it. I was happy to find that my lucky apron was clean and ready for the task. I slipped it on and got to it. The original recipe calls for a graham cracker crust but I thought gingersnaps would be more fun! This recipe was a snap and I love that these are just the right size for a nearly guilt-free treat.

mini strawberry cheesecakes with gingersnap crust
inspired by 500 cupcakes

makes 24 cheesecakes

2 cups gingersnap cookies
10 tbsp melted butter
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups softened cream cheese
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups confectioner's sugar, sifted
3 eggs, lightly beaten
fresh sliced strawberries

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Place 24 paper baking cups into muffin pans.

Put the cookies into a food processor and pulse until you end up with course crumbs. Stir in the butter. Place a tbsp of this mixture into each paper cup and press firmly into the bottom. Chill until set.

In a large bowl using an electric mixer, beat the ricotta until smooth. Add the cream cheese, vanilla and confectioner's sugar, blending until smooth. Slowly add the eggs, blending well. Spoon mixture evenly into each cup over crust.

Bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove pan from oven and cool 5 minutes. Then, remove the cheesecakes and cool on a wire rack. Chill until ready to serve. Top with sliced strawberries.

My husband loved these and I know you will too. Slip on your aprons and give 'em a try! :)

Teen Apron Goddess Sew's Her Own Apron

2010-04-16T20:09:00.001-07:00

Good Evening Apron Goddesses. Or should I say TGIF? Well I'm saying it if you aren't. Really, I am ready to slow time down over the next few days.

To kick us off, I have a picture to show you that was submitted by Rebecca at Buttons and Bows and We are Forever His.

She said, "My daughter just made this apron about a week or so ago. She didn't have a pattern, she just made it with the knowledge she had from making one in Home Economics last year."

I am thinking that this "girl" did awesome on her first try without a pattern of any kind! Three cheers for "girl power." Or rather woman power . . .

Thanks Rebecca for sharing your daughters great little project. Congrats on raising a child who can DO things! Yeah!

Winner! Winner! Winnner!

2010-04-15T06:23:00.000-07:00

I have a winner for the Le Creuset baking dish. The lucky person to receive this beautiful dish was chosen by the random number generator.........and the winning number is 31! Congratulations to ikkinlala who said "I'd love to enter, please!" Shoot me an email and I will send your information to CSN Stores so that they can get you your lovely baking dish.

As for the rest of you, go check out CSN Stores! I know I am going to see about one of these baking dishes, they are just too beautiful not to have. Have a great day and congratulations to our winner.

Goddess of Slacking . . . That's Me.

2010-04-14T16:00:00.001-07:00

Apron Goddesses,

I have gotten behind again. But with good reasons.

With many projects gathered in my proverbial "apron" I wanted to give you an update. Below you may inspect this gathering apron with long ties at the bottom. One puts veggies and such inside and ties the strings up to carry things hands free. I think I might need one slightly larger than this.

We all strive to balance everything in our busy lives, take care of kids, juggle work, hobbies, and personal projects. I am no exception.

I've been really preoccupied with one main project which is on the brink of being finished. It's a book, a children's book, called Bingo's Big Adventure. You can get a sneak-peek HERE. I only have the cover and back to finish and I am DONE! Yeah! When it comes back from the printer I will offer a giveaway here for a few copies for sure.

Meanwhile, be sure to enter the giveaway sponsored by Modern June. It's just gorgeous.

Bye for now!!

My new favorite cupcake

2010-04-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

Happy Saturday, Apron Goddesses! It's the Ungourmet once again. I just can't get these strawberry and cream cupcakes out of my head! I baked them up for Easter brunch and they were over-the-top fantastic! Now, I'm longing for Oregon strawberry picking season to roll around so I can whip them up again with some yummy local berries.

strawberries n' cream cupcakes
by theUngourmet -inspired by 500 cupcakes

for the cupcakes
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 cups all purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
pinch of salt
4 eggs
juice from 1 lemon
1 tbsp lemon zest
1 tsp vanilla

Preheat oven to 350. Place 18 cupcakes liners in muffin pans. Combine all the cupcake ingredients in a large bowl and beat with an electric mixer until smooth and pale, about 2 or 3 minutes.

Spoon the batter into the cups. Bake for 18-20 minutes. Remove from pan and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.

for the topping
1 cup heavy cream
4 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla
4 cups slice small strawberries
4 tbsp strawberry jell-o
1 tbsp water

Whisk the cream, sugar and vanilla in a small bowl until soft peaks form. Spoon onto the cupcakes and arrange the strawberries on top of the whipped cream. In a small saucepan, heat the jell-0 and water, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Brush this mixture over the strawberries. Chill until ready to serve.

Try these! I know you will just love 'em! Oh, and don't forget to wear your aprons! Strawberry stains are a killer you know...and not the good kind of killer! Ha! ;D

History of the Casserole

2010-04-08T01:57:00.000-07:00

Hi all...Suzi here to teach you a little about the casserole.

The word casserole originates from the French regarding the type of dish used to make one-dish meals. It is the saucepan or deep dish used both in the oven and as a serving vessel.

According to Wikipedia the casserole, as we know it, is a relatively modern invention. The "original" casserole made it's appearance in the early 18th Century, but used rice that was pounded, pressed, and filled with meats or sweet breads. Casserole cooking as a one-dish meal became popular in the United States in the 20th century, especially in the 1950's. In the 1950's it became easier to do one-dish meals because the pans used for casseroles were being produced with lighter weight glass and metal.

Speaking of casseroles, I have a recipe for you. It is a favorite of my husbands, one he grew up with that I had to get from his mom. It is called Picnic Casserole, it's a little different, but sure is good.

Picnic Casserole

Ingredients:

1lb ground meat (I use beef or turkey, sometimes I use 1/2 of each)
1 onion
3-4 cloves garlic
1 can tomato soup
1 can tomato sauce
1 can creamed corn
1 can slice olives
salt and pepper to taste
1 tbs. Worstershire Sauce
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tub Kaukauna sharp cheddar cheese spread
1/2 bag extra wide egg noodles (I use the whole wheat ones, my hubby can't tell when they are in a casserole)

Saute the onions and garlic to softness. Add the ground meat and cook thoroughly. While cooking the meat boil the noodles according to the package. Drain the meat. After draining the meat add the tomato sauce, soup, creamed corn, olives, cheese spread, Worstershire Sauce, chili powder, salt and pepper. Mix well. When noodles are done, strain and add to the casserole dish. Make sure the cheese spread is melted with in the casserole before putting into the oven. Bake at 350 for about 1 hour.

This pairs well with homemade garlic bread and some broccoli or a salad.

This type of casserole would look great in a beautiful Le Creuset casserole dish. In fact we are having a giveaway for one of those dishes right now. The giveaway will be going on for one more week. Make sure to enter said giveaway in the comment section of THIS post.

Happy casserole making and good luck with the giveaway. Have a great week!

Spring Time Apron Giveaway from Modern June!

2010-04-05T20:35:00.000-07:00

Happy Spring Apron Goddesses! Happy, happy days are here!

To kick off April we have a beauty of an apron giveaway sponsored by Modern June. This is the Eva Apron in Olive. . . Can you say wowsie wowow? I can.

Owner of Modern June, Kelly wrote, "Although we have left the days of June Clever behind I believe there is a bit housewife all of us. Our homes ground us, it just sounds charming to have a nice house that we have lovingly decorated. To create wonderful meals for our happy family. This may not be our reality but we can dream."

I agree with her philosophy and am dreaming about this apron! It's just gorgeous.

About Modern June: All aprons are 100% handmade in Virginia!!! You will not find any factory made wares in the shop.

Modern June started out as a simple creative outlet for a semi-desperate housewife. Kelly had become anxious to do something that was just for her. She had also become obsessed with vintage aprons so she started selling her growing collection at the local farmers market. Kelly could not bear to see them go so she drafted patterns of her favorite vintage aprons. By Christmas of that year Kelly was making tots and a few aprons but everyone wanted more Modern June. Those patterns went to work.

Modern June is now sold in over a dozen brick and mortar shops across America and Canada. As well a few online boutiques. The best place to find Modern June is on ETSY!

I love Kelly's motto, "Put on your apron and be creative."

Now here's what you need to do if you want to be in the random drawing for the Modern June beauty pictured above. Visit the Modern June Etsy site and browse the selection. Come back here to TAG and make a comment about your favorite. That will give you one entry into the giveaway.

For five extra entries into the drawing create a blog post about this giveaway, leaving your permalink in your comment. Be sure to mention this in your entry.

And for 10 extra, bonus chances at winning send in a picture of you or a family member wearing an apron and a few words about you and your apron. Give me the dirt! Leave a comment that you are sending in a photograph too! (Contact is above) No headless apron wearers please!! We will write up your "apron-ography" in the weeks to come.

Closes midnight April 20, 2010.

Who Said Easter, Aprons and Camouflage Can't Go Together!

2010-04-04T02:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter to all the Apron Goddesses in the World!

We colored a few eggs on Saturday so the Easter Bunny would have less work to do.

Ella is my Mini-Me Missy Apron Goddess who can pull off the camouflage sweatshirt with the tan leaf print apron while coloring earth tone eggs. She's got it all together at the wise age of three.

I love that the brown eggs our hens lay don't color like normal eggs. They take on pretty natural-looking shades of color. We added oil to the dye to get the mottled look.

Have a wonderful day everyone!

A muffin so good I just had to share!

2010-04-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

Hey, fellow apron lovers! It's the Ungourmet here again. I hope you don't mind taking a peek at another muffin recipe because this one is so moist and delicious with such a nice bright Springy flavor, I just had to share it! I was inspired once again by 500 cupcakes. That little cookbook just rocks!

Lemon Blueberry Poppy Seed Muffins
by theUngourmet -inspired by 500 cupcakes

makes about 12 muffins

2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 large egg
1/2 cup canola oil
1/2 -3/4 cup orange blossom honey
1 cup nonfat Greek style yogurt
1 tbsp lemon zest
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 cup fresh blueberries

In a medium bowl, Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, oil, honey, yogurt, lemon zest and lemon juice. Add the flour mixture to the egg mixture and stir just until combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.

Bake in greased muffin tins at 375 degrees for 16-18 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack.

For the icing I just used 1 tbsp honey, juice of 1/2 a lemon, 1/2 tsp poppy seeds, 1 tsp milk and enough powdered sugar to make a honey-like consistency. Then, I dipped the top of my muffins into the icing. So Yummy!

Happy Easter!!

Leanne The Walker is an Apron Goddess

2010-04-02T10:50:00.001-07:00

Today, I have an apronography from Leanne at Leanne...The Walker. She has sent in a photo highlighting her her breast cancer awareness apron. Leanne also writes about about cooking and life with her husband at Life as a Wife.

I really appreciate Leanne's photo below. Leanne said, "Here I am in my cute pink apron. This apron was handmade for me and has breast cancer ribbons and inspiration on it. I walk in the Susan G. Komen 3-day for the Cure and am a huge supporter of a world without breast cancer."

Leanne also wrote, "This apron means a lot to me because it showcases something so dear to my heart. While I love the apron, as you can see, it doesn't cover the top of me!

My husband and I cook all the time and are always making new recipes and trying new things in the kitchen. I would love an apron that provides coverage so that I don't get spaghetti sauce on my clothes! :-)"

Thanks Leanne for sharing your apron with us and thank you for your support of a great cause that all to often effects someone we know and love.

Giveaway Time!

2010-04-01T01:09:00.000-07:00

Hi ladies and gents....Suzi here to bring you a giveaway from CSN Stores.

What's that? You can't hear me? Well go get yourself some speakers, speaker stands, and turn up the volume! I said I have a GIVEAWAY for you.

Can you hear me now?

What's that? You're deaf now?

Oh good, I was beginning to wonder...

But on to this vision of beauty dressed in white below? It is a Le Creuset 4.5 Quart Rectangular Casserole Dish with Lid. I would love to add this to my collection, it is perfect for a casserole I make for my family (more on that next week as I will reveal a top secret family recipe then...).

This multi-purpose Rectangular Casserole with Lid can serve so many uses, any cook will wonder how they ever lived without it! Whether heating a dish in the microwave or baking lasagna in the oven, the uses are endless. The durable finish resists chipping, scratching and staining. It has sure grip handles for easy handling from the oven onto the table to create a beautiful table presentation.

So if you are interested in entering this giveaway leave a comment below. You will have 2 weeks to sign up by leaving a comment at the end of this post. I will announce the winner April 15 and then send the winner's address to CSN Stores so they can send the lucky winner this beauty of a casserole dish.

And if you are in need of some speaker stands be sure to check out CSN's selection HERE.

Good Luck to you all!

My Happy Little Surprise

2010-03-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

Morning Apron Goddesses in Blogville! Julia here, and I am wishing you a bright start to the week.

I got a little package yesterday. A simple little package. I want to share it with you.

But first rewind.....

This is my favorite cooking pan. Classic cast iron. Deeply blackened from seasons of use. It cooks eggs, sautee's vegetables, braises meats...

A valued and critical instrument of cooking in my kitchen.

Warning: It has a naked handle that heats to searing.

Now jump forward again. Let's leap to the package.

Inside was this colorful beauty!

And the reverse side looks like this.

Now it can be used like THIS!! See, no more fumbling with full sized oven mits. On. Off. On. OFF.... it can be dreadfully slow putting on oven mits especially with wet hands. Let's just say I should have bought one myself by now.

And most importantly, this sweet pot holder came from Anna at Sewing Through the Muck. I don't know how she knew I needed one of these, but she did!

Thank you Anna for your wonderful gift. It really made my day.

One more thing I forgot to show.
This is what my oven mitts look like...
They are ready for retirement.

Good morning, muffin!

2010-03-27T08:03:00.000-07:00

Hey, hey, it's me, the Ungourmet. Just in case you are in the mood to don your aprons and bake up some muffins this weekend, I thought I'd give you a fun recipe to try! I found the cutest cookbook at the library the other day. It's called 500 cupcakes and it's bursting with wonderful cupcake and muffin recipes.

Morning Granola Muffins

adapted from 500 cupcakes

1 cup finely chopped dried apricots
1 1/4 cups granola (I used honey and almond)
2 1/4 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup canola oil
3/4 cup orange blossom honey
2 eggs

Preheat oven to 350. Lightly oil 18 muffin cups.

Whisk together the apricots, granola, flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside. In a large bowl, beat the juice, oil, honey and eggs with an electric mixer until combined. Add the flour mixture to the egg mixture and stir just until combined.

Fill muffin cups about 1/2 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes. Remove from oven and cool for 5 minutes. Remove muffins from pans and allow to cool on a wire rack.

Have a terrific weekend!

Daffy is An Apron Goddess

2010-03-26T02:35:00.000-07:00

TGIF Apron Goddesses!! This is Julia here, and I am wishing everyone a relaxing and peaceful weekend.

To start us off I want to show you one of our latest Apron Goddesses extraordinaire. Her name is Daffy. Daffy the Adorable, I think.

Daffy explained, "The story behind this apron is that a wonderful friend of mine made me this apron about a month ago. She's a wonderful seamstress and was laughing heartily at my misadventures in the kitchen.

When she found that for years I've just used chipbag clips and affixed dish towels to the front of me, she took pity on me and made me this wonderful apron! It makes me feel very wonderful to wear it.

Usually once I've put it on, it is with great regret to take it off. I'm sort of a dork that way.... I would dearly love to add to it and start a collection of aprons.

I love gardening as well and am thinking I should have a whole basket of gardening aprons to choose from! Good idea, right?!?"

I think Daffy has all the right ideas here. And in fact, it reminds me of the gardening apron tutorial that I posted last year. I was wearing my gardening apron today while getting the vegetable beds ready too.

So, I want to send a thank you to Daffy for her lovely apron photo and for her great reminder about the gardening aprons that can be donned this spring!!

Life is Beautiful in an Apron

2010-03-25T01:14:00.000-07:00

"I have been in desperate need of an apron for the longest. I usually end up with a portion of whatever I'm cooking on the front of my clothes! My mom has always told me I need an apron, but I just didn't like the plain jane aprons. They just weren't me. I started looking around the internet and that's when it happened; I fell in love with vintage style aprons, and boy did I fall hard! I just kept entering giveaways for them, but I was never a lucky winner. Then I found Boojiboo. Their aprons just blew me away, and I knew I would have to have one. I finally bought me one, and I can already tell I'll be starting myself an apron collection! I never knew wearing an apron could make me feel like the cutest girl in the country!"

Go check out Ashley at her blog Life is Beautiful, see what there is to see and leave her a comment. You know how much we all love them. Her latest post has a great picture of a woman wearing, non other than, an apron and talks about Spring Cleaning..........which I need to get to myself. Thanks Ashley for the reminder!

Winner of the Retro Revivial Choose Your Favorite Apron Giveaway

2010-03-24T12:41:00.000-07:00

Rush hurry, hurry rush.... I am all a tither the last few days but am going to keep on track!! Really I am!

In the spirit of organization and efficiency I will be brief. There was one winner for the Retro Revival promotion. From the 190 entries (which includes A LOT of extra credit from photos!!) the random number generator spit out magic number 78.

That placed the winner as Elaine R who wrote,

"I like the Betty Crockers 1950s Vintage Apron-my older sister would love this!"

So I think Elaine R may be gifting this apron to her sister. Lucky sis!!

Now for the non-winners.... The aprons at Retro Revival are totally affordable and maybe you can get your favorite anyway!

Support your handmade in the USA!

Quilt A Treasure Sponsors a "Pick Your Favorite" Apron Giveaway

2010-03-22T20:38:00.000-07:00

Good Evening Apron Loving Goddesses!!

I am happy to announce another "choose your favorite" apron promotion and this time it is sponsored by Quilt A Treasure!

Quilt a Treasure also has their own blog:Quilted Treasures at which local classes are announced and tutorials can be found on quilting. They are already working on some Halloween quilts cause they are so organized!!!!

But back to APRONS! I'd like to show you a few of my favorites from the Quilt A Treasure store at Etsy.

Since spring is in the air and flowers are burgeoning everywhere in my town I am enjoying the thought of this pink floral inspired halter style apron. It is made from Jennifer Paganelli's Sis Boom fabric which is wonderful stuff!

Next I love this floral, (you see there is a theme here...) with blues and whites and reds. Very vibrant and spring like too. Again this great halter style is quite flattering I think. The wide waste will really accentuate your figure in a good way with this one. This fabric is from Riley Blake Designs.

And my final pick of favorites is this lovely to the left. Cool as a cucumber, lemony twist, floral happiness....Maybe a glass of Long Island ice tea with lemon. Hmmmm. Well, that's how I see it. And can you imagine, it's made from Amy Butler's MidWest Modern fabric? It is.

So, onto the giveaway instructions...

To enter the giveaway for the apron of your choice from Quilt A Treasure, visit the web store and browse the selection. Come back here to TAG and make a comment about your favorite. That will give you one entry into the giveaway.

For five extra entries into the drawing create a blog post about this giveaway, leaving your permalink in your comment. Be sure to mention this in your entry.

And for 10 extra, bonus chances at winning send in a picture of you or a family member wearing an apron and a few words about you and your apron. Give me the dirt! Leave a comment that you are sending in a photograph too! (Contact is above) No headless apron wearers please!! We will write up your "apron-ography" in the weeks to come.

Closes midnight April 6, 2010

Winner of the Apron from AnnieG Aprons

2010-03-22T02:31:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the late, late post of this drawing... Our vacation in Montana with sights like this below kinda got me off track. The pictorial of our visit is at Our Simple Life, so you can see more pics like this if you like!

I ran the numbers adding extra credit to all those who blogged about this giveawway and sent in photos AND....

The random number generator spit out number 99.

That means Miranda at Momma is Sweeping is the winner of the AnnieG apron. Congrats to Miranda! Enjoy your apron and wear it well. Please send me your address and I will forward to AnnieG.

If you want your own AnnieG Apron, there is time to hop over and get one for yourself at her store! Support hand made in the USA!

She will be back in full apron production at the end of the month and will process any order you place as soon as she is able.

Pooba Remains an Awesome Apron Goddess

2010-03-21T09:35:00.000-07:00

Good day Apron Goddesses! Julia here. I've been away on vacation for the past 10 days and am finally back to catch up.

So I wanted to kick off this week with an apronography from Pooba.

She sent in this picture a few weeks ago for extra credit and said, "OK, now I debated whether or not to send you one of these pictures, I think you know which one. But I thought what the hell, I'd love to have my big ass posted on the internet for all to see.

So there you go.

My Hiny.

With a little bit of apron."

Since her butt is small this matters not at all. I find the faithful Dozer gaze more troubling. LOL. What a DOG!!

Kelly continued by saying, "I guess I will tell you a little bit about this apron, it is definitely one of my favorite retro styles. My good friend, Melanie, of 16 years gave it to me for my birthday last year, she knows me well! I just love the brown with pink polka dots and the little bows on the pockets are the icing on the cake! I admit it doesn't go so well with a Broncos T-shirt but hey, it was superbowl Sunday so I had to wear something footbally. And Broncos was all I had."

"Dont' judge."

We never judge here at the Apron Goddesses so no worries Kel. Thanks for sending in your picture!!

Now go and visit Kelly at Pooba! Now!!! That's right!

Time for a biscotti break!

2010-03-21T09:01:00.000-07:00

Hey Apron Goddesses! The Ungourmet here. How is your weekend shaping up? Mine is much better after a cuppa joe and one of these wonderful biscotti. I found this recipe over at the Pink Apron and just had to try it! I've been on a bit of a biscotti kick lately. I think this one is my favorite thus far.

Here is the recipe. Enjoy!

Mocha Hazelnut Biscotti
adapted from the Pink Apron

2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp instant coffee powder
1 stick of butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup toasted chopped hazelnuts
1/3 cup dark chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and lightly grease a baking sheet.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt and coffee powder. In a large bowl with an electric mixer beat together the sugar and butter until light and creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla and beat until combined. Stir in the flour mixture to form a stiff dough. Fold in the nuts and chips.

On prepared baking sheet with floured hands from dough into two 10 x 2 logs. You can play around with size of logs to come with the size of biscotti you prefer.

Bake logs for 35 minutes until slightly firm to the touch. Remove from oven and allow to cool on baking sheet for at least 10 minutes. On a cutting board cut biscotti on the diagonal into 3/4 inch slices. Arrange biscotti cut sides down on the baking sheet and bake until crisp, approximately 10 more minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Store in an airtight container one week or freeze for up to one month.

Hope you love these as much a I do!

Calling All Animals

2010-03-18T02:13:00.000-07:00

Of course this is a blog about aprons! Aprons of all kinds!
Now have a look at these. These aprons are on animals that have been embroidered on a blanket.

Such a beautiful quilt.

Vicki has an online shop called Pattern Bee Vintage Embroidery Shop. Through her shop she sells vintage embroidery patterns, iron on transfers, traceable PDF's. She even has the ability to restore patterns which can be used over and over.

This is one of the many items she has created. If I were to have another baby (which I am NOT) I might want to have her make me something special. She also has a blog called Turkey Feathers where you can see some of her beautiful handy work. So hop on over and give her a shout!

Jerky-Sweet and Spicy Yum!

2010-03-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Do you like to chew on some tough and rough beef jerky?

Not me! Nope!

And the Sweet & Spicy Mango Beef Jerky and Sweet & Spicy Orange Beef Jerky that came to sample from Jerky.com were perfect!

My husband Mike is a self proscribed jerky connoisseur and was available for his opinion on this product. I handed him the bags and instructed him to, "Taste away O' Spouse of Mine."

He inspected the packages and raised his eyebrows. That can only mean one thing.

He grabbed a piece of the orange flavored jerky and sniffed it. Then popped it in his mouth. The eyebrows raised higher.

"This stuff is hotter than sh**! It makes me thirsty for beer. That's a good thing for Anheuser Bush."

He kept chewing and thinking. Then he blurted out, "This jerky has the perfect chewiness of meat. I love the hint of citrus."

I also liked the citrus flavor that was subtle and not overwhelming.

Mike continued, "The meat is dry but still chewy. This texture is good. I can't stand that slimy kind of jerky and this is not in that category at all!"

He finished his evaluation with, "I love them both!"

So I guess that does it. Go buy some of this jerky from Doug over at Jerky.com . It's really the best you can get! Great tasting and genuine quality that is tough to beat! You take a look at the Sweet & Spicy Mango Beef Jerky and Sweet & Spicy Orange Beef Jerky and get some for yourself. You know you want it!

You never know what your mother will find at Goodwill!

2010-03-13T00:01:00.000-08:00

Hello my fellow apron goddesses! It's me, the Ungourmet! I hope you all had a lovely week and that you are enjoying an even lovelier weekend!

My mother called a couple of days ago to tell me about an apron she found at the Goodwill. It has a darling angel on the front of it and is signed 'Sarah'. There are also some other words on the apron in teeny tiny font. They read, MD Anderson Cancer Center Children's Art Project.

I enjoy playing detective so I immediately set to work...googling. I came up with this website. MD Anderson Cancer Center is in the state of Texas so I'm not sure how this cute apron ended up here in Oregon.

It seems that children (from all around the US) going through cancer treatments create artwork for aprons and many other items from jewelry to calendars. The monies go toward cancer research. According to the website, the project has returned more than 25 million to date.

If you have a few minutes to spare, go on over and take a peek at the wonderful things these amazing children have created!

Can you feel it?

2010-03-11T02:20:00.000-08:00

Spring is in the air!

So Garden Goddesses, tie on an apron, get out in the sunshine and get that garden going. I know I will.....as soon as I get back from Idaho.

Retro Revival Giveaway-Choose Your Favorite!

2010-03-10T08:25:00.001-08:00

What a week Apron Goddesses.... In brief, I am packing for vacation and will be on the road and in Idaho and Montana for the next week. But before I depart I can offer up this lovely giveaway sponsored by Retro Revival!

Owner Cindy has told me that you can pick your favorite from her store and win it. I love her wide variety of fabric patterns and styles to choose from. My favorite is this vegetable themed apron pictured to the right. As a botanist I am a sucker for the greenery.... This veggie pattern accented with the green and white polka dots is adorable to my plant loving eyes.

Other aprons that caught my attention were the cherry patterned varieties like this one. Our cherry trees are not yet blooming here, but will probably start breaking bud in about three weeks. I don't have a cherry patterned apron yet so I'm thinking I need a new addition to my apron assortment.

And this cutie-pie cherry apron caught my eye too. It reminds me of an Apron Goddess take on the standard tennis outfit except with lots of great cherries on it!

At Retro Revival, you can find vintage-inspired aprons that will provide a colorful barrier between your frock and your soufflés. The apron styles are all handcrafted from original patterns, designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era! You may find kitchen towels, full and half aprons, tote bags, and shower caps.

I happen to have two of the wonderful totes and LOVE them! Click HERE to see my Retro Revival TOTES. They are amazing.

So, onto the giveaway instructions...

To enter the giveaway for the apron of your choice from Retro Revival, visit the web store and browse the selection. Come back here to TAG and make a comment about your favorite. That will give you one entry into the giveaway.

For five extra entries into the drawing create a blog post about this giveaway, leaving your permalink in your comment. Be sure to mention this in your entry.

And for 10 extra, bonus chances at winning send in a picture of you or a family member wearing an apron. Leave a comment that you are sending in a photograph too! (Contact is above) No headless apron wearers please!! We will write up your "apron-ography" in the weeks to come.

Giveaway Closes 3/25/2010.

Stepford Housewife-Apron Goddess

2010-03-08T06:29:00.000-08:00

Julia here this morning Ladies....I would like to wish you a Gooooood Monday!!

Now give a big greeting to Carmen at Closer to Lucy who is our resident Apron Goddess for today. She has shown up wearing her favorite Halloween costume and her FAVORITE apron.

Carmen said, "I love it because my neighbor (whom I adore) made it for me." But I think one could really scare or happily surprise their husband wearing this when he came through the door. I know my dearest husband would fall on the floor in shock just seeing me in a dress....but I digress.

I must say, Carmen pulls this number off with little effort! She looks fabulous in her color coordinated polka dots and apron. And the jumbo pearls add that genuine touch of perfect accessorization! I think she has "a little" Apron Goddess attitude... Thank you Carmen for your fun photos!

You can give Carmen holler over at Closer to Lucy!!

Tomorrow a new apron giveaway is coming so stay tuned.

And remember to sign up for the giveaway from AnnieG Aprons!

Click HERE to sign up. Bye for now....

Tie on your aprons, it's time to bake cookies!

2010-03-06T00:01:00.000-08:00

Hey all you apron goddesses! It's me, the Ungourmet! I'm so excited to be here! I stumbled onto the Apron Goddesses when I first began blogging and I am so glad I did. What a fun place for lovers of all things apron!

I did a little searching around to see if there were any foodie blogs with the word "apron" in the title and I ran across The Messy Apron. Great blog!

I found this scrumptious cookie recipe over there and just had to try it. It was love at first bite!! Seriously! I ate at least four of these today!

Granola Chocolate Chunk Cookies
adapted from the Messy Apron

makes about 3 dozen

1/2 lb butter, room temperature
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
2 1/2 cups granola (I used one with raisins, dates, and almonds.)
1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (I didn't have chunks on hand.)

Beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Add the vanilla, beat until combined.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and ginger. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir to combine. Fold in the granola and chips.

Using an ice cream scoop, place a scant 1/4 cup of dough on cookie sheet, spacing each scoop 2 inches apart. Bake in a 350 oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Place on rack to cool.

These are so good! The granola adds such a nice crunch and you can never go wrong with chocolate, right?!

Thanks so much Julia for inviting me to be a part of your wonderful blog!

Bulls in Aprons

2010-03-04T01:10:00.000-08:00

Spring is near and BBQ season is almost here.
I imagine that I will be donning all the BBQing aprons, as my husband has rescinded that job.

I love the spring and summer time cook outs. Bring me a beer, glass of wine (or anything else to drink), good company, and lots of food to be grilled and I am happy. This picture depicts how I enjoy my longer days, even if it is just my family.

Fed Up With School Lunches?

2010-03-01T21:05:00.000-08:00

Apron Goddesses, have you seen this site?

Fed Up: School Lunch Project (By a Teacher who is eating school lunch just like the kids every day in 2010)

If not you should. I knew some school lunch programs were in sad shape and recent efforts in some schools have resulted in improvements to the nutrition and calorie content of kids lunches. BUT there is a long way to go!

If you want a blow by blow account of an average school lunch program check out this site Fed Up: School Lunch Project. It is eye opening.

This teacher's account is matter of fact and shows a photo of the lunch daily. She is also providing other discussions about recess in school too. It's a good site to check out for a "reference" check on your own school lunch program.

We are lucky at our school to have Revolution Foods as the provider of our school lunch program. I love their motto "Make ever bite matter!" We bake cookies and the like at our home but they are given judiciously and I make sure that their "treat" is just that. A treat. And that it does not comprise a large proportion of my kids food. Revolution Foods takes it even further and does not provide any "treats" in the lunch box.

I order my son one lunch per week from their menu and we pack his lunch the other days of the week. The lunches are not packed with extra calories, are tasty and healthy. It's a good thing!

It is so hard to teach a balanced approach to eating in kids. What is healthy? What is a treat? How much treat is OK? I don't think you should eliminate fun snacks in a diet but teach the kids to moderate themselves at an early age....

How is your lunch program? And are you happy with it?

The Newest Apron Goddess on the Block

2010-02-28T20:16:00.000-08:00

As some of you know, I have been struggling with keeping up with blogging as of late. Work, kids, life.... everyone has this issue. But I recently enlisted the help of another creative blogger to pick up a day a week here at The Apron Goddesses. I know she will breathe some fresh air into this site and keep our apron spirits floating.

Time for the introduction of an Apron Goddess who some of you may already know... It's Kim at The Ungourmet! She hosts a spectacular foodie blog site with amazing recipes and beautiful accompanying photos. The deserts she makes are divine and all the foods she cooks make me drool. Seriously.

Kim has been a great friend of TAG from the early days and has great ideas to contribute to our community. I welcome her to TAG without reservation! She is a true Apron Goddess who's spirit glows from the inside out!

Thanks Kim for joining our ranks. I appreciate the help in this busy time.

Let's give her a rousting greeting and cheer!

Cookless Oat and Coconut Cookies

2010-02-27T20:50:00.000-08:00

My boy wanted to help in the kitchen today and I saw a recipe by Walk in the Woods at What I Made Today that I wanted to try. It required no oven time so we got right to work!

This recipe is called Balls of Solace over at Walk in the Woods, but I have modified the ingredients a bit and baked the oats before incorporating in the mix and changed their name a little.

Wyatt threw on his workman apron with a gusto and got right to business with mixing and stirring as directed.

While we got some of the ingredients incorporated in the big bowl, we waited for the oats to cool.

Here's the "mess" of toasted oats, coconut, butter, cocoa, sugar, and vanilla.

And after mix was pulverized and mashed into submission, we formed small balls which we rolled in powdered sugar.

The recipe for these little delicacies is:

3 cups toasted oats (place on cookie sheet at 350 degrees until browned.)
1 cup sweetened coconut
1 cup softened butter
1 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
6 tblspns cocoa
1 dash of salt

Mix well!!! Then mix some more.

Then roll in a topping such as powdered sugar. Walk in the Woods also suggested cinnamon and sugar or instant coffee for coatings.

Good Luck and Enjoy!

Little Miss Apron Goddess Invents Improved Ways to Process Food

2010-02-26T20:36:00.001-08:00

This Little Miss Apron Goddess is my kitchen helper in many wonderful and annoying ways. Just recently she has taken to sitting on my foot and clinging to my leg during the cooking process and I drag her around while she giggles hysterically.

Additionally, she takes breaks to invent new improved ways to grate cheese. Observe the use of a small John Deere tractor with a flat cheese grater attached to the hitch as an "implement" of culinary sophistication.

I am obviously dealing with some kind of genius here. I don't know why I did not think of this earlier...

Nothin' Butt Aprons

2010-02-24T01:13:00.000-08:00

Lunch Time Publicity Stunt

These girls went out on the street at lunch time to show what they are made of. This was a publicity stunt to promote their unpackaged soaps and cosmetics. What better way to do it than become "unpackaged" themselves. These six women caused quite a stir during this lunch time. Want to read more? Click the link above.

Giveaway by AnnieG Aprons and Bags

2010-02-22T01:41:00.000-08:00

Mornin' to all the Lovely Apron Goddesses in Blogville!!!

Do you see the vision of beauty below?

This is the apron that Annie of AnnieG Aprons and Bags has sponsored for her giveaway.

Now Annie said, "The apron I’m giving away this time is so newly finished that it’s not even on my website yet! I’ve been making the full aprons for about a month now and decided the other day that a cute, flirty little waist apron would be fun to do for the giveaway."

Annie used fabrics from the House Collection, and said, "They’re just wonderful. Some of them have an almost silky feel. The colors are VERY shabby, muted pinks, browns, and linens. Different colors of jumbo rick rack accentuate each flounce."

The ties on this apron were made long enough so you can bring them around and tie in front or to the side. Additionally, Annie has included a handmade shabby fabric flower pin because they are just lovely!!

As for wash and wear, Annie says, "As always, my aprons are “practically beautiful”……lovely to look at and easy to care for. Throw in the washer and dryer on gentle settings, give it a lick and a promise with the iron and you are good to go!"

You know you want to look all sassy and shabby in this adorable cute apron right? RIGHT!!!

So here's what you need to do:

To enter the giveaway for the shabby-flouncy half apron from AnnieG Aprons and Bags, visit her web store and browse the selection. Come back here to TAG and make a comment about your favorite. That will give you one entry into the giveaway.

For five extra entries into the drawing create a blog post about this giveaway, leaving your permalink in your comment. Be sure to mention this in your entry.

And for 10 extra, bonus chances at winning send in a picture of you or a family member wearing an apron. Leave a comment that you are sending in a photograph too! (Contact is above) No headless apron wearers please!! We will write up your "apron-ography" in the weeks to come.

Giveaway Closes 3/9/2010.

P.S. Annie will be out for a few weeks and if you place and order with her she will not be able to process until she returns. Exact details are located on her site! But if you want to order an apron she will get it to ya. Just a little delayed.