Apple Pickin

Since I only have about 3 days a week with Katie and Matt, I try and plan some family fun each weekend.  I know the first weekend in October is a little late for Apple Pickin, but I thought we would give it a shot.  Katie has been learning all about Johnny Appleseed at school - so I thought some real life apple picking would be perfect.

 

I found an orchard online called Johnson's Orchard in Bedford, VA.  We drove the 35 minutes out to the farm and what do we see when we drive up?  A huge statue of Johnny The Appleseed.  Oh - Katie's face was just priceless.  She immediately started singing the Johnny Appleseed song she had learned at school and saying "Mommy, I want to go play with him!" 

Its a good thing that Mr. Johnny Appleseed was there, because otherwise I think the trip might have been a BUST.  Turns out, the apple harvest happened about 3 weeks earlier than normal this year.  When we arrived there was a sign posted saying "No more u-pick-them apples."  I thought I must be mistaken....but no!  UGH!! 

When I inquired about the many trees I saw outside with fresh, ripe apples still available - I was informed those were reserved for several upcoming school field trips this week.  DOUBLE UGH!!!  Meanwhile, my 3 year keeps asking when she can go pick her apples....because that's what I've promised for the last 30 minute car trip.
 


So, I start to explain to Katie why she won't be able to pick any apples off the trees.....instead we will get some out of the apples crates (pre-picked).  I'm doing my absolute best to keep Katie from being disappointed when a lady who worked at the orchard, overhearing our conversation, finally took pity on us.  She directed us to a small couple of trees off the beaten path where Katie could pick one or two apples. (WHEW!!!!!).  At that point, the afternoon was saved - as Katie was able to pick a whopping 2 apples from the tree.




 The orchard really was quite cute.  They had several farm animals - Katie's two favorites were the peacocks and chickens.  My favorite part was "Johnny's House"  (aka - the bathroom).  Seriously, it was a fully plumbed bathroom which looked like an outhouse - and quite appropriately named Johnny's House.  Pretty funny actually....wish I had gotten a picture of it.  Next year we will definitely go back, just a little earlier in the season to be sure there are apples available.