Pumpkin Carving ~ 2017

Perfect weather. Fleece hats, cordoroy pants, and sweaters.

"Daddy, carve it just like this!"



Surprised every year.



Noticing bits of fall in our own backyard.





Using our time together to capture a few















And then we came in to watch 'The Dog Who Saved Halloween'



We ate Apple Cider Chili in the family room.

1 T flour
1 t allspice
1/2 t pepper
1/4 t garlic powder
1 lb stew beef, cubed
3 T oil
1 to 2 c apple cider
2 T catsup
3 potatoes, peeled, chopped
2 to 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
2 onions, chopped
Optional: 1/4 c flour

Place flour and seasoning in a large plastic zipping bag; shake to mix. Add beef to bag, a few pieces at a time; shake to coat. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat and brown beef; drain. Stir in cider and catsup. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for one to 1 1/2 hours, or until meat is tender. Add vegetables; simmer an additional 30 minutes, until tender. If a thicker stew is desired, make a paste using 1/4 c cooking liquid and 1/4 cup flour; stir until smooth. Slowly add to stew; cook until thickened.

And then feasted on apple pie in the kitchen.



(and then after bedtime I got to work for my 4th grade class)