Our Apple Cider Party

Grandson Ian wanted to make cider on our farm this fall and had one weekend when he and his partner could come down from their Seattle area abode... so that's when we made cider. One set of friends had their own apples in need of pressing after their press broke down. Others just wanted to join the fun... and take home cider. Friend Barb kindly had a birthday that Saturday so it became a birthday celebration as well as a cider pressing party. In addition to all that, it was soon after the election that had our like-minded friends depressed and frightened for the future of our country... and our own futures. Together we put all the fears and worries aside and just had a rollicking good time.. while making a whole lot of apple cider.

Although it was a cold and wet November day, Johnny had moved vehicles out of the shop/garage and set up the operation under cover. Everyone was dressed for the weather and seemed to stay warm enough. ...But we moved indoors for the meal.

Most fun for me was hearing the stories that these friends told of their adventures on our farm when they were young. There were actually 3 "generations" of  "kids" represented, ranging from close to the age of our sons (who are in their 50s now)... to 30? somethings... and then to grandson Ian and partner in their early 20s. Barb, the birthday person and mother of one of the cider-making crew, is of our generation.

 Everyone took home fresh pressed cider... but there was lots left... and lots of apples still on the farm. So Johnny gathered more apples during the week and pressed again the following Saturday. Then, in his well-equipped shop, he pasteurized the cider.  

It's a lot of work for Johnny but he (apparently) enjoys it. I try to stay out of the way and mostly just take photos.

 

The little bottles are ones he gives away to all the delivery people who come, postal workers, and everyone else he meets throughout the year. It's a handy way to express thanks and share the bounty of our farm. 

                                  Happy Thanksgiving from the Fink Family Farm!