First Field Trip of the Year: Apple Picking!

A few weeks ago we kicked off our field trip season with a visit to the North Georgia apple orchard capitol, Ellijay, for some apple picking. It was exciting to see how the orchard picks and process the apples. This conveyor belt is the sorting area of the orchard house where they determined what grade the apples are and where they would be shipped. On location they sold apples by the bag, peck, and bushel. They also sold many other apple products like butters, cider, and pastries. Surprisingly there was a farm store inside where you could get sweet potatoes, peanuts, peppers, pumpkins, and even collard greens. Of course I had to get a bushel of greens while we were up there. 

I was so happy Dad got to attend this event. I carpooled up to the orchard 2yrs ago with my oldest and Dad and littles didn't get to come. So they were very excited to experience the orchard. I was ever so thankful dad was able to carry Chunky Diva through the orchard in our hiking baby carries cause she is getting really heavy these days. Here they all are checking out the bee hive while the tour guide explains the importance of pollinators for a successful apple crop. 

Each child was able to fill up there own bag with apples they hand picked from the U Pick trees. Now this is one of those time when having a large family comes in handy. With all of our childrens apple bags filled to the brim we made out with a 1/2 a bushel of apples. We also purchased an additional 1/2 bushel to take home which we later processed down into 7 quarts of applesauce and 2 quarts of dehydrated apples. You can find great tips on how to can, freeze, or dehydrate your fresh pick produced on the Pick Your Own website. I have used there recipes many times. 

I have to tell you the beauty of the North Georgia Appalachian Mountains was captivating. It really was a beautiful sight. I wouldn't mind having a piece of land up there someday. 

                                                                                                                                           

A Pumpkin Patch Adventure w/ Grandma!

This year I had the pleasure of having my mother and sister come down with my newborn nephew to spend time. We had a fun filled trip to the local pumpkin patch. It is a such a blessing to be able to share in the beauty of the changing seasons with the ones you love. The kids really enjoyed spending time with their brand new cousin. They showed him the ropes when it comes to picking out the best pumpkin. Some of the fondest memories I have from my own childhood are those times spent with my grandparents and cousins during the festive times of the year. I am happy to continue on the tradition of celebrating family with my mother and children. 

This particular pumpkin patch has loads of attractions to round out your experience. They of course have the hay ride up to the field where you pick out your pumpkin. But they also have some farm animals displayed and equipment like this tractor you see above. They  of course were selling some goodies like funnel cake, popcorn, hot dogs, and hand churned ice cream. 

My Chunky Diva was to little last year to really know what was going on. This year she had a blast running through the rows of pumpkins. She was trying her best to pick up the heaviest ones too. 

One of these days we are going to get a family pic where everyone is looking forward at the same time.