Signs

I'm not quite ready yet to say goodbye to summer, end my summer glow, summer days at the pool, and summer nights in the hammock, but lets face it.....there are signs that the next season is lurking around the corner.

You see all these black cats come out about this time a year scouting the houses they want to spook, or live under for the fall/winter.

It's a sure sign when the clouds are more frequent, and the leaves change color.

And a sign that I need new paint cause we haven't used it since the last part of spring.

A dog standing in the window will surely give it away, because all he wants to do is be warm and snug in his bed.

I would have to say though, that apple crumble over the fire this past weekend while camping was a clear sign I was glad to see. My best friend had a secret up her sleeve with this one. I had no idea that crumble could be so easy, and so good.  Here's what I did at home.

Apple crumble


6 sweet dessert apples(pink lady is what I used)
1/2 stick butter
1/2 cup brown sugar packed
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 Tb buttershots(butterscotch schnapps) optional
2 packages of the Pepperidge Farm soft baked sugar cookies

Peel apples, and remove the ends and core. Slice about 1/4 inch thick and place in bowl.

Meanwhile, melt butter in a heavy deep skillet on medium heat, add brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until dissolved.

Add buttershots if you desire. It just makes it a little richer that's all. But careful it will spatter a little.
Pour apples carefully in pan and toss to coat. Keep the heat at medium and you should notice the jucies starting to come through. Stirring often for about 20 minutes or until nice and tender.

If you have a helper, now is a good time while your stirring to have them work on the really hard crumble.

Take the two bags of cookies, and put them in a bowl.

Crumble away!

Of course make sure there hands are washed, and don't let them lick there fingers.

When it looks like this, your good.

When your sauce looks thick,

and apples are tender, pour the crumble over the top. Press down slightly and cover with a lid. Pull off the heat and let set for 10 minutes.

Oh man, I'm telling you, this was so good. I know I'm cheating by not making my own crumble, but you know, sometimes we just need a little ease, a little sign that were doing the right thing.

I think I am!

I think I did!