We started the night before picking crabapples from the tree in my in-law's back yard. We also spent a few hours the day of picking. The kids even helped. It is a good activity if you want to get every talking.
Once we had the apples, it was time to juice them. My mother-in-law has an awesome contraption that steams and juices the fruit for you. Once you have 4 cups of juice, you are ready for the first batch. Add 4 cups of juice and 4 cups of sugar to a large sauce pan and set heat to high. Once the liquid comes to a low boil, turn the heat down and slowly bring it to 220 degrees Fahrenheit. Before it gets to the right temperature, the bubbles will double in size and the foam will be very white. Watch closely at that point, so it doesn't get too hot.
Once it gets to 220, immediately remove from heat and let the foam settle. Then pour into jars. You will get 2 pints per batch.
Once the jelly is in the jars, you're ready to seal it and let it set.
