On Apples

Without a doubt, October is my favorite month of the year. I love the smells, tastes, sights, weather, activities, clothes, and colors. And the apples. Apples, apples, apples.

Since I moved to Philly 6+ years ago, I've wanted to go apple picking at a cute little farm called Linvilla. They have pick-your-own all summer long — and I always manage to wait until prime apple picking season is over to decide that I want to go. Sad trombone.

This year, I was finally on the ball. And the stars aligned with perfect weather the first weekend of October — apple picking weather if I've ever seen it! Here's a few pictures from our adventure.

Isaac Newton? No. Just Brad. With a beard. But I think he was having a moment with the apples. Spiritual, I tell you.

Action shot. We picked mostly Stayman-Winesap apples. Coincidentally, this breed of apple originated in Kansas, just like my husband. Stayman-Winesaps are crisp and have a coarse texture and a spicy, wine-like taste. They keep well in the fridge and are great for eating fresh and for baking with. Okay, I'm done now with the history lesson now.

The apples were reasonably priced — $1.49/pound or $29.95 for an overflowing box (pictured below). We ended up with about 11 pounds of apples, or about half a box. Better than the price was picking the apples myself and knowing that I was buying produce that couldn't be more local unless I grew it myself.

And I don't think that's going to happen on the roof deck.

 

It was hard to believe we only drove 20 miles out of the city to find this gem. All in all, it was a good time!

It looks like apple picking is done for the year at this orchard, but next year I hope to get in on the action a little sooner. Their summer picking includes all kinds of berries, peaches, rhubarb, grapes, pears, and veggies. And if you don't have acres to grow your own complete garden, this is definitely the next best thing.

Is it summer yet??