The Smell of Fall

Apple season has come early this year. One of our traditions with the nephews is picking apples. We always end up with far more apples than any of us know what to do with and this year is no exception. I think we ended up with close to five bushels of apples to split between all of us. We brought home almost two full bushels. The problem, I HATE peeling apples. More than doing just about anything. Luckily, my hubby doesn't feel nearly as strongly about peeling apples as I do. Also luckily, I remembered I have one of there:


of course I didn't remember that I had it until he was halfway done with the apples that he was peeling last night, but at least I remembered. I do love the smell of cooking apples. Apple pies, apple crisp, apple sauce, apple butter, apple bread, applesauce cake....I love making it all. I walked in the house tonight to the smell of cinnamon and apples simmering away in the crockpot waiting to be canned for apple sauce. Unfortunately that five quarts was only about an eighth of a bushel so there will be lots more in my future. The smell of cooking apples and the chill in the air reminds me that fall is right around the corner- which means fresh, crisp air, beautiful foliage and lots of baking--definitely puts a smile on my face.