Fall is in the air

This past weekend, the kids and I had the best time partaking in an annual family tradition.  Each year, my mom and her siblings (and all family members that are available) get together and make applebutter.  If you have never tried it, I HIGHLY recommend it.  Think applesauce on steroids with lots more cinnamon and goodness baked in. 

We make the applebutter traditionally -- cooking it in a copper kettle that has been used by the family for many moons over an open fire.  Everyone has to take their turn stirring the applebutter which is a constant process because if the stirring stops, the applebutter could stick and burn.  Also, there is the silver dollar that is put in to the pot to help keep the applebutter from sticking and then the wooden paddle used to stir the applebutter. 

The process starts the night before when the sisters (and sister-in-law) get together and peel the apples -- usually with the help of the husbands.  This year, I believe there were 6 bushels of apples, but when different family members were asked, that number ranged from 4 bushels to almost 20 bushels (story telling is a huge part of the process too).  The applebutter goes on around 8 am and then the rest of the family starts to arrive. 

It isn't planned, but it works out perfectly that different families arrive at different times, almost as if to take over when the previous stirring shift is starting to get tired.  More and more food starts to arrive, lots of laughter is heard and the applebutter cooking takes a back seat to the family time and fellowship that is occurring.  Then an amazing thing happens -- the applebutter is done.  All of the hard work has come to fruition almost in an instant though looking at the watch, over 7 hours has gone by.  The canning crew takes their places -- which is funny because it is usually the same people in the same places every year with a few substitutions here and there depending on who can make it and who can't. 

The jars are filled, some blisters are formed -- though no one really minds.  And then the day is over.  Everyone takes their pre-ordered amount (or as close to it depending on how much applebutter is actually made) and then we go our separate ways.  It is amazing that this is the one time of year that we get to see each other in some cases, but we pick up right where we left off from the previous year.  It is so heartwarming to see -- and to watch as the younger generations get involved (which is funny because I am realizing I am not only part of the younger generation, but that my younger generation is also learning from the experience). 

Overall, I believe we made 58 pints and 50 half pints this year.  Not as much as some years passed, but plenty for what everyone had requested.  And, not only do I have the memories and experiences from this year, but I also have some great Christmas gifts for neighbors and co-workers -- all made by hand!