Fall means apple pickin

When Matt opened the door to leave for work yesterday, I was hit with that morning chill that just doesn't exist until it's officially fall. So I knew it was official... and I was excited.

I love so many things about this time of year. The AC goes off and the windows are propped open with sticks (because our windows are 70 years old, but that makes it even more special).

And, we go apple picking.

Niall very carefully selects each one, plucking it off like he's found a golden egg... and then tosses it back into the woods after taking one bite like he's totally disgusted by it.

But as for the ones he doesn't take a bite out of-- "the showcases"-- they are proudly held up high for everyone to see and then stashed into his apple picker's bag for later... for someone else to eat, someone who will actually eat an apple.

I love that these trees are so low and he can reach the apples to pick them himself.  I can tell that it's so much fun for him.

Except for that occasional one that is just out of reach ;)

It was so interesting to look back on our same orchard trip from last year.  He definitely loved it just as much...

But this time, he was not interested in hanging with mom.

He was off exploring on his own.

And with his little buddies.

I've come to realize that this is by far the best way to get a picky eater to eat his fruits and veggies.

Or a not-picky-whatsoever-eater ;)
They like apple picking, too.

I can't wait for pumpkin picking and crisp days that are cool but not cold, spiced lattes and red leaves falling on the grass.

But for now, we enjoy the last few warm sunny days we have left this season.  We pick apples and run through the park and stare at the sunflowers.

And ride that tractor like nobody is watching.  Life is good.