An apple a day...

I was too lazy/busy to plant a garden this summer so I missed out on the joys of harvest.  Today a new neighbor stopped by my house and asked if she could pick some apples.  Evidently I have a rather rare type of apple tree and even though the poor tree has not been pruned EVER, she wanted to try a couple of apples.  In addition, she placed some picked apples on my porch.  Honestly, they don't look anything like what you see at Kroger or Marsh.  They were small, really dark and pitted looking but oh my goodness were they good!  They were very firm and slightly tart (my favorite kind!). This is the third fall I have lived in this house and never once have I tried those apples.  What a shame!  I am picturing all the beautiful apple pies, apple butter and apple sauce that is in my future!