Yesterday, my friend and I went on an adventure to go apple picking. It was only about an hour ride--not too far over the Illinois border-- and our hopes were high thanks to the beautiful weather. But what we found when we got there was a tad disappointing and spoiled our plan:
-We pulled into the parking lot... $5 to park.
-We went to go buy a bag for the purpose of picking apples... we were told that it would be $40.
At first, I was in fury that commercialism has managed to attack and ruin yet another American tradition and one of my personal favorite pastimes! However, Apple Holler Farm was festive and I was sure the hefty price for picking also included the smell of manure, I mean the goats available for petting, a barn with live family music and the delicious smell of freshly baked apple pastries. We abandoned the idea of picking our own apples and instead I picked four pounds of apples from the barrels in the market section of the Farm. We then indulged in apple turnovers and apple donuts, which were still warm they were so fresh. And I fought the urge to buy a caramel apple, as I couldn't decide if I wanted a Packers themed (green and yellow sprinkle topping) or a Bears themed (blue and orange sprinkles) apple.
Our stomachs full and our craving for apple-themed goodies sated, we left the
Farm and took the scenic route home along the lake. The weather was an ideal fall day; just cool enough to remind you that the seasons have officially changed but the sun was shining enough to warm those who still refuse to wear an appropriate jacket (you can't yell at me through a blog mom!). On the way back to the big city, we stopped in the town of Lake Bluff, which is about 20 miles north of Chicago. We walked down the cliff and onto the beach area, spending a few minutes admiring the blue water and boats that were out for a Sunday sail. The area reminded me of a coastal Maine town; beautiful houses in a such a serene atmosphere. (Photo: a view from the cliff)The day was capped with one of the best cheeseburgers I have ever had and a side of tater tots (tater tots are the thing around here. No french fries for me!). And I am sure that none of you are in the least bit surprised that I have spent an entire blog post talking about food.
So, just to recap: Parking... $5.. Apples... $40... a fun-filled fall day and a new state experience... Priceless. Awesome cheeseburger... $8 (sorry, I couldn't leave it out... it was that good!). Great food, great weather and great company made for a very fun Sunday. Too bad it had to end with a flurry of paper writing.
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