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