From orchard to cocktail glass

Every autumn means two trips to the farm; once for pumpkins and once for apples. Could we easily pick up the same produce for less at the neighborhood market? Yes, but not if you're trying to recapture that field trip vibe.

Remember the electricity in the air on field trip days in elementary school? Riding the yellow bus on freeways, looking out at the world outside your cocoon? There was the hot cider and the scarecrows, and the magic of picking out a pumpkin.

Going to the patch during harvest time is meant to bring a little bit of that magic back, especialy if you have kids. Or are an "infuencer" desperate to show off your new floppy hat.

Our apple picking trip took us into the mountains, where the leaves had started changing colors. There was fresh air and sweeping views. Most farms serve apple pie but I always go for the apple cider doughnuts at Carter Mountain Orchard. When we bring home our haul, I make apple rings in the dehydrator. But 2020 has been one heck of a year. Mama needed a drink, and it was too good not to share.

Grab a pitcher, because it's a crowd pleaser. Mix equal parts apple cider and ginger beer. Throw in a cinnamon stick and the juice from one lemon. Then add as many bourbon shots as you see fit. No judgement here! Pour over ice and it's fizzy and refreshing. Garnish with apple slices, and enjoy. Preferably outside, where this fleeting season will lose its beauty before you can say "black Friday."