October 3: Pumpkin Patch & Apple Picking

Pumpkin patch: going on the first day means a full selection of pumpkins! 

 

Full disclosure: we actually enjoyed our annual day of picking last Saturday in, gulp, September. But I saved the pictures for this post because we typically would have done this activity today, the first weekend in October. It's just that last Saturday was so beautiful we couldn't resist taking advantage of the fall weather. Since it has been raining for days now, I'm extra glad we carpe diem-ed (oh language, how I love to play with thee) because this weekend would've been a soggy washout. And last weekend we had the surprise bonus of it being the farm's first day of the picking season, so the selection of both pumpkins and apples was bountiful. It was fabulous!

Here's some highlights of our adventure.

 The farm had set up a small pen with a few chickens and sheep; the girls were thrilled to watch the animals.

This rooster was cock-a-doodle-dooing up a storm!

The girls searching out the perfect apples: no bruising, no worm holes, 

& preferably large so when Mommy makes apple pies, she doesn't have as many to peel...

Last year we visited later in the season and we needed to climb the trees to reach what was left of the fruit (fun in its own right, to be sure; in fact, my older daughter was disappointed there was no climbing on this trip). This year, as you can see, the branches were overflowing with apples.

Only $12 to fill a large basket full of fruit!
There were also a few veggies, so I grabbed 7 delicious red peppers. Mmm.

 Our apple haul getting a soak in our sink when we got home. 

I clean all my produce in a vinegar-water solution. Soak, rinse, dry, enjoy!

Fun fact: it also extends the life of berries. 

Just be sure they are thoroughly dry before refrigerating them, and (to decrease any moisture) store 

them with a paper towel to absorb any condensation that may form.

We selected an assortment of red delicious, macintosh, jonagold, and mysterious golden varieties (haha) of apples. 73 in all. Wowsa! Stay tuned for various apple-inspired recipes, friends!

 Running ahead en route to choose pumpkins. 

Wouldn't it be nice if they always held hands like this? Awww!

As you can see, the girls had a lovely day as we enjoyed one of our favorite fall family activities.