Apples for jam, apples for butter, apples for jelly, for eating and more. I managed to can 5 cases of slow-cooked apple butter (or apple jam, I say) this past week in my tiny kitchen, and boy was it a lot of work–who knew? Hence so many other things just didn’t get done, like the recipe post of the aforementioned sticky, but not too sweet breakfast treat; my daily swim, the laundry (again), and keep counting.

The rewards, though, are that I have 60 (8 oz) gleaming jars of it all packed in boxes like an old fashioned farm store might have on their shelf. It also tastes great, was made from apples I picked myself at the Pisoni ranch (south of Salinas) last week, and on Friday will be given away at the Pisoni wine-makers’ dinner where I’m the guest chef. It’s just another way I can bring the cycle full circle, an opportunity for me to share my passion for seasonal food and sharing around the table. This is all happening at Nepenthe in Big Sur on Friday, November 7th as part of the first annual Big Sur Food and Wine Festival.

I’ll be at the Phoenix Shop the following morning, Saturday November 8th, signing books; feel free to drop by and say hello. Or find me that afternoon at Sweet Elena’s Bakery in Sand City for a “meet and greet” from 4-6 pm. Books will be sold, cash or check is preferred. Elena will host one of her monthly theme dinners that evening inspired by recipes from “Lolly’s Kitchen,” a chapter in my book. Come join me and my family for a delicious and sure to be memorable feast around her table–drink wine, talk story and reminisce. My sister Josie, formerly of Diva Dulce in Monterey, will be cooking with Elena, so no doubt it will be good. My other sister Sara will be showing her newest work: portraits of another time and mind, vibrating with color and soul.

Stay tuned for my apple butter (jam) recipe, in a forthcoming post.