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Picking Apples

Picking apples is one my favorite fall activities. I love being outside with my family and this is such a fun way to do it. The bright red and green fruit against the trees is picturesque. I'm not sure if freshly picked apples actually taste better or if it's just all in my head - but I'm always tempted to eat three or four or five while we are still in the orchard. 

We've gone to a couple different local orchards and while we've enjoyed them all; we've yet be hooked on just one. This year we picked apples at Cody's Farm and Orchard for the first time. We've picked strawberries there twice (1 & 2) and enjoyed it so much we decided to come back for apples this year. It's probably the introvert in me, but I don't enjoy huge crowds and lots of chaos - especially when visiting a farm. I'd much rather have it be a calm quaint experience. It, however, can't be too small - I want apple cider donuts and the kids enjoy a good play area. Cody's was perfect for us. There were about a dozen other families out for the day, but we still felt like we had plenty of space. They also had a little play area and some tractors for the kids to climb on. Their apple cider and donuts were delicious too! 
BabyZ is a bit obsessed with balls lately...I guess it comes with the territory when you spend your Saturdays watching your older brothers play soccer and basketball. We corrected him, but he tried  to play catch with one of the apples. 
There were a lot of apples high up on the trees; Jeremy suggested a double-shoulder-ride as a way to reach them. 
Of course, then BabyZ needed a shoulder ride. 
BabyZ also spent a lot of time exploring the sand at the bottom of the trees. It's so much fun having a toddler again. They bring new eyes and fresh excitement to every activity.
My older boys, or course, found some creepy crawlers. Everywhere we go lately they have a new insect, reptile, or amphibian they want to bring home.
Big Buddy has gotten so tall and has these moment were he looks like such a little man. It always makes me pause...there are so many feelings: awe for his beauty, pride for how much he's grown, and sadness; because while he will always be my baby he's so far from being a baby.
BabyZ could of spent hours pretending to drive this orange tractor. If there is anything he loves more than balls it is vehicles.
The kids favorite thing in the playground was definitely the corn pit. Jer and I had a mini date drinking cider and eating donuts while they dug and jumped around. 
Now to get busy making some apple goodies. Thanks, for stopping by for a visit. I hope your fall is off to a great start!

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