Fall Events: What are you doing?

Labor day is the "official" kick off to the fall season, although it technically doesn't start for weeks after that. We went apple picking to kick off the 'season', it was such a great day! We've taken our kids a few times in the past and I don't think we've had a bad time yet. Each time we go it's a completely different experience, the first time the girls were just toddlers and wanted to pick up each apple from the ground... well it is what they could reach. The next time they were about 7 and 8 years old, old enough to really enjoy it and understand the good apples from the bad apples for the most part. We went again when they were 14 and 15, again lots of laughing and we got a TON of apples, enough that we were begging people to take some from us. Well this year the baby is away at college, but my older daughter now almost 19 and her boyfriend went with my hubby and I. We had so much fun, again a different experience then before, but just as memorable.

Yesterday I began making apple leather (recipe below) to use those apples we picked. As I peeled the apples I started remembering the fun things we did and said while picking those apples. What do you have planned to do this fall? Do you have a regular activitiy that your family does each year? Do you want to start a family tradition? Remember no matter the age of your family, even if you are retired and it's just two of you, begin something new this fall.

Apple Leather

3-4 pounds of apples or choice (best if using a mixture of varities)

Sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg to taste

Water if needed

Peel, core and chop apples putting into heavy bottomed sauce pan. Cook on low stirring often until it becomes an applesauce consistancy, adding water if needed, mine takes about 1 hour to get there. Puree/smash apples to desired consistancy... I like the babyfood consistancy the best. Taste at that point, add sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg to taste. Each bactch will need a different amount due to the sugar content in the apples used. Line 2-3 baking sheets with waxed paper or parchment paper. Spread the apple mixture to disired thickness... I do it so it's almost see through. Place in a cool, yet bug free environment for 2-5 days, checking often. Once it no longer sticks to your finger it is ready. Cut into pieces, I cut it 2x4 and wrap them individually. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month. If longer I'd suggest storing them in the freezer or refigerator.

Enjoy!