Fall Day Fun

Today was a beautiful fall day in Missouri. The temperature was just right for fall, the breeze was light and cool, the sun shone brightly in the big blue sky, and the kids had a great time shooting their Halloween  pumpkin. After taking turns with their pellet rifle, they proceeded to "surgically" remove the pellets as they argued over who was the better marksman.




We worked on the proper stance while shooting. They're getting it, it just takes practice. We also discussed gun safety, which is a subject that I think every child should learn whether you have guns or not.

 

The pumpkin awaits his fate as the marksmen takes aim.

I love fall and the kids love shooting their pellet rifle. Of course, after a fun filled afternoon of pumpkin hunting we had to give Miss Mina some love too. Unfortunately, Aaron couldn't be here to watch the kids shoot and play but that's life on a farm. Fall is harvest and manure spreading time, so we just deal. 

 What fun stuff are you doing this fall?

Apples, Apples, Apples Everywhere

The days may still be warm but there is no doubt--Fall is in the air! At the first signs of fall I just have to cook and can. We didn't get a garden in :o( but at least we have apples. There is nothing like the fresh, crisp aroma of fresh cooked apples lingering in the air, applebutter on your toast, and fresh made applesauce with supper.
 

Given, cooking apples indoors in a stock pot isn't quite as much fun as cooking it over an open fire in a copper kettle but I'll wait until cooler weather for that.

After adding the cinnamon, cloves, all spice, and

red hots I just love watching the color change to that rich brown that applebutter is known for.

After cooking for hours, it's finally time to can and seal in that delicious apple cinnamon flavor. Since I was using my slow cooker I had to cook it in batches. I made the extra into applesauce. Apple butter and applesauce are so easy to make. If you have apples or can buy them in bulk I recommend making some. You can't beat homemade goods!

Don't forget about that yummy apple bread. After all, you have to have something to spread all that applebutter on.

Do you have a good apple recipe? Please share in the comments box. I love to try new recipes.