Progressive Adjustable Bread Keeper

The sad fact is that as soon as baked goods come out of the oven, they begin to stale. As unfortunate as this is, it also contributes to our appreciation of them. But, to hold off these affects a little while, I highly recommend the Progressive Adjustable Bread Keeper. The keeper expands to fit up to an 11" loaf, has vent controls to help keep bread and baked goods fresh, includes a convenient bread board for slicing, and is top rack dishwasher safe. You can also put baked goods in this keeper before they have fully cooled. The design and vents makes sure moisture stays away from baked goods is able to escape from the keeper. I have had an excellent experience with this product and am thoroughly convinced it greatly helps in keeping baked goods fresh. This item is available on Amazon for $12.95 and is eligible for super saver shipping. Happy baking!

Dried Apricots

I'd like to introduce you what I liken to the crack cocaine of the dried fruit world... Blenheim Variety Unsulfured Dried Apricots, available at your local Trader Joe's. I have always liked dried apricots. I would get them now and again. But, I have never tasted dried apricots this good! (And this recommendation is time tested folks as I'm sure we have gone through at least 10 bags by now.) I realize they sharply resembled dried shoe leather, but if you can get past the visual, I'm sure you will love these disgusting looking marvels. They are a little pricey at $6.99, but, they are worth every penny.

To find out if there is a Trader Joe's near you, click here http://www.traderjoes.com/static/find_a_tjs.asp

Aprons You'll Love

If you are going to be in the kitchen baking up a storm, you'd best look the part, right? I realize there is a line between need (strictly for utilitarian purposes) and want (wishing to look like the ultimate Betty or June). Based on that understanding, I can say that these definitely fall into the "want" category. Since I've become more practiced in the kitchen (I no longer make disastrous messes like I used to and my husband can no longer affectionately call me "slop-d-gobby"), I feel I am now able to wear one of these beautiful aprons. The best I've found are designed by Jessie Steele and are available both on http://www.jessiesteele.com/ and http://www.amazon.com/. I purchased mine through Amazon as they both cost slightly less and qualify for free shipping. And although I sadly could not wear one of my new aprons while refining my newest concoction, Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins, I will almost definitely be wearing them next weekend while I'm cooking up something else. The aprons pictured are those I have ordered. I feel my personality runs from energetic and sunny to strong with a splash of sophistication and therefore feel these aprons reflect both sides of myself. There is a great variety of aprons from Jessie Steele. Hopefully you can find one that reflects and accents you.

Natures Pride 100% Whole Wheat Bread

People often ask me for a good store bought bread recommendation. I have been through a LOT of whole grain breads. My criteria include 100% whole grain, all natural ingredients, and palatable. It is very difficult to find all these in one loaf of store bought bread. The one I have been most pleased with is new on the market, Nature's Pride, 100% Whole Wheat. It does have sugar and brown sugar in it, but it has great texture, moisture, and flavor. I have received good feedback from those who have tried this product based on my recommendation. Hopefully, you will find it fits your criteria and palate too!