Have you ever seen an apple turnover?

If you were lucky enough to go to Scott Avenue Elementary School in Whittier, California, then you might have had Mr. Lentine for fourth grade. I did.
Mr. Lentine was the kind of teacher that brought out his guitar when math got boring. What fourth grader wouldn't rather sing "Froggie Went a Courtin" over reducing fractions? He was the kind who'd read Shel Silverstein poems after lunch with theatrical voices. He was the kind of teacher that helped my little brother Roy when he came to school crying because his hair was sticking up in the back. Mr. Lentine used his own back pocket comb to smooth down Roy's alfalfa hair. He was the kind of teacher who taught you how to square dance, draw aspen trees, shade geometric figures, and basically how to thrive. He'd probabably get in big trouble now for not pounding READING WRITING ARITHMETIC all day long. But I just adored him, and school too while I was under his tutiledge. One afternoon, while he strummed guitar as background music, our class thought up phrases with double meanings, like "Have you ever seen a horse fly?" or "Have you ever seen a star burst?" "Have you ever seen a donut box?" "Have you ever seen a high school dance?"
And I still remember the one that I thought of: "Have you ever seen an apple turnover?" I was so pleased with myself that day.
Which brings me to this week's assignment: Flaky Apple Turnovers for Tuesdays with Dorie. I'm pleased with myself again today, but Dorie should really get all the credit. These are truly stupendously delicious. They require a bit of work and a heap of patience, but the reward is well worth it in the end. The crust is flaky and slightly tart a perfect foil for the sweet cinnamon apples. I made a half batch and then made half sized tarts, by cutting circles from a teacup top. (Click here for the recipe.)Doesn't a little apple turnover just seem so timely for a bitty September after school snack? I wish I could bring a big tray to Mr. Lentine, as a thank you for a rich and meaningful 4th grade education. Some things you never forget. Some things can never really be over because they become a part of you.
Yep, I've seen an apple turnover.

How about a Fall Kick Off Dinner with these turnovers for dessert?

We'll be having cider and maple braised pork chops, buttermilk mashed potatoes, and spinach salad with sliced apples and swiss. Come on back all week for the recipes.