home made apple sauce

Husband and I have started a new tradition.

Every fall, we head to the local orchard to pick apples.

And then we make apple sauce.

It's as easy as easier than pie. 

vanilla extract: make your own!

I have a small confession to make.

When I'm baking anything from a recipe that includes vanilla extract,

I always add a little extra. Sometimes... a whole teaspoon extra.

Which means I go through vanilla extract pretty quick around here.

[I just really love the warm, homey, sweetness vanilla adds.]

But as anyone who bakes knows, good vanilla can be pricey.

A few weeks ago, I found the perfect economical solution:

how to make your own vanilla extract!