Boys and Apples

The joy of seeing all five of my boys together is that they are all friends. They watch out for and defend each other, even with all the arguments of youth.

Tech time, where they learn from each other and banter over who has the best computer, phone, apps, programs and skills.

Nathan and Hyrum were thrilled to learn that Derek and Justin had a pool at their apartment complex. Though the late September weather left the water rather cool, they had a great time trying to outdo each other in flips, dives, and tan lines.

Though it's still a year away, Hyrum has been contemplating his upcoming orchestra decision. Cello or violin? He talked Justin into giving him some pointers on the violin which solidified his decision. Violin for 5th grade orchestra next fall.

Speaking of 5th grade, where did my baby go? When he came into my room to talk I was surprised at how grown up he was in his athletic wear. I was happy to still see the little boy who wanted to snuggle with his momma.

As part of Nathan's 6th grade class, he had to come up with something for the class to sell as a fundraiser for the classroom. He whipped up a small batch of Edible Cookie Dough and took it for the class to sample to see if it would make the cut.

The class gave an emphatic thumbs up and after a double batch was put together, he filled 32 small cups and sold them at lunch (with the help of his class) during the first week of fundraising.

Rumor got around and we made up 50 cups for the second week...which nearly sold out! He handed out the remaining cups on the bus with complete satisfaction.

Three years after planting, and one transplant later, Nathan finally had apples grow to full ripened size on his apple tree. Most of Hyrum's blew away in the dramatic winds of spring but Nathan's held on through the whole season.

We loved the fresh, organic taste of Nathan's apples but they weren't enough to bottle for the winter season. I was so excited when a friend asked me to join her in picking from another neighbor's tree. As the boys climbed ladders and picked from full grown, established, overbearing trees, they day-dreamed about the potential of their own trees at home.

We picked enough to bottle a year's worth of apple crisp filling and juiced some for immediate drinking. They were the most delicious apples I think I've ever had. Worm free, large, sweet, and heavenly.