Cider time! This year Tom put a motor on the press. Last year he had sore joints from cranking the thing so much. Then, when it would catch, that didn't help. So--with the motor, cider is much easier to do! The hard part this year is getting the right mix. We couldn't get the same kind of apples we got last year--which made a delicious cider! We're starting all over trying to find the right combination. Tom likes to do it more "scientifically" instead of just throwing any and all apples together. It was very rewarding last year--our cider would last almost 2 weeks in the frig. and still be good--not hard! Everyone who tasted it really thought it was an excellent cider. I don't think we'll be as pleased this year, although we're certainly trying to get a good mix.
Fall is upon us and I must admit, it feels sort of good. Tom is anxious to get to the woods and hunt. It would sure be nice if he could get another nice deer this year. Last years was soooooo good! One nice deer would complete our meat for the year since I'm getting a 1/2 pastured pig and a 1/2 grass-fed beef. Funny-in Alaska just 1 good sized moose would be all you'd need for the year!

Aaron is doing well in training. He did have to have 15 stitches between 2 fingers. A week ago Sun. he was cut by a knife- right down between the fingers. OUCH! They wanted to set him back but, he said no-he'd met all the requirements just like everyone else had. So--they let him stay with his company. Hopefully it's healed well and he'll have no problems. Of course. I started to talk to him about keeping it clean, etc. He stopped me and reminded me that he knew all about that--they're all given basic medic training! Is it hard not to be Mom?????

I must end by reminding you that God is truly an AWESOME God! How He loves us and cares for us is nothing short of amazing! He has proven it over and over. I wouldn't know what to do without Him.

Enjoy your day/week! Save your pennies!

The modernized cider press! Complete.





Here comes the juice!




The first jug of juice - this is just the base--golden delicious

On being helpful

Ok, so there I was, standing near my man, not quite by him, while he was busy sucking yellow jackets up with a shop vac. We were helping a neighbor--the yellow jackets were coming into her daughters room.So--being the helpful, loving wife that I am--I was there with Tom. Mind you-I-(yes,me)- was the one standing pretty still while Tom was moving around and making quick movements-something bees don't like. Well-as you've probably already guessed--I was the one to get nailed! Now, I don't think it was looking for me but, I was in his line of fire and he hit me right under the nose! I hurried home-about 2 mins. away at my speed today--to get some comfrey to help lessen the swelling. I knew I wasn't getting it on fast enough to keep it from swelling but,I knew it would probably keep it from being full blown. The treatment does look lovely, don't you think? Call it a spot facial!

Chemical free products!

Surprise

Last weekend when Tom and I were in Dayton, we ate at a very eclectic restaurant.The food was good and the dessert was great! I can't remember what the waitress called it but, it was a chocolate lava cake. Tom really liked it so-----last night I surprised him with it! I know this is so bad--sugar and white flour! then add the Breyers icecream!--oh, my. It was a hit with Tom, though. It will be one of those few and f-a-r between treats!

Correction

Aaron is not at camp Lejune--he's at camp Gieger. This is still in NC and actually close to camp Lejune.
He flew there Mon. morning and will be there for 52 days. After that--it remains to be seen.
There is a good possibility that his company will be called up in the next6 months I guess. That is not a comforting thought.
Pray for him if/when he comes to your mind. I'm sure he would appreciate it.

These are some more pictures from Aaron's graduation and some fun time Tom and I had. The troops did an early morning run on Thursday and we were able to be on base to watch. After the run they cleaned up, got into thieir uniforms and there was a small ceremony in the building before releasing them to their families for a few hours. They could not leave base but, there were plenty of places to eat and shops to go to. It was a nice time.
Now Aaron heads to Camp Lejune, NC for another 52 days of training. I guess there is a good chance his company will be called up- maybe in a few months or so. I know this is what they were trained for but, we sure hate to see him go. It's such a scary prospect.
Hope you enjoy the pics and have a great day!

Aaron is bearing the flag-3rd guy to the right




Platoon 1062 of Delta Co. D--Aaron's platoon


OUR MARINE


Family time--lunch at Traditions on base Thursday



my most favorite man in all the world

getting our fire going


canoeing on the black swamp creek-SC

taking a lunch break