A Little Cider on Day 3

Today was the eerie star, although, it didn't turn out near as eerie as the one in the magazine I took the idea from. In my defense, however, making that paper mache star glittery silver took a long time and resulted in a lot of glitter in my face (see, I told you I wasn't crafty).We were instructed to make and drink apple cider (because the drinking part needed clarification -- who's going to spend the time making it and NOT drink it?)

the finished product. no, i didn't cope out and buy the stuff, i actually made it (see recipe here). i just thought this photo would look more artsy here. no? you disagree?

I quartered the apples solo because I foresaw disaster in trying to have a 2-year-old help in that department.

But Jane added the cinnamon sticks and stirred the mixture once it was on the stove.

Of course, seeing that it sits on the stove for 3 hours, she forgot all about our endeavor and started demanding Dinosaur Train. I think I might have a serious problem coming in that area ...

But after dinner and baths, the intoxicating smell of apples and cinnamon wafted through the house and reminded Jane that she had a treat coming.

Everyone enjoyed it. Even my husband who said Gala apples make it a little too sweet -- so be forewarned.

Jane, apparently, also received her aviator license at some point.

There we were at the outlets when Jane insists on going in the rocket. Usually I say no, but today she was being patient with me, so I fished out 50 cents.

She excitedly got into the rocket and it began to swivel back and forth. Not a minute into the ride, she decides she wants out.

Back in the stroller, Jane turns to me in all seriousness and says, "Mama, rocket no fly."

"Did you think you were going to fly away in the rocket?" I asked.

"Yes."

Hmm. Very sure of herself, this one.