OCT 2009 - APPLE TREES

This month's Nature Club outing was to a farm/orchard to learn about apples. We had a great turn-out as it was open to all the homeschool families whether they belonged to our nature club or not. I think there were 70+ that came.

We were taken on a tractor ride through the orchard where we saw the pumpkin patch, the corn maze, peach trees and apple trees.

How do you fix a broken pumpkin?

With a pumpkin patch of course.

We meandered through a mini maze set up just for touring schools (since we're a little short on time...can't afford to get lost in the maze.) We were then taken to the apple processing area. We were able to watch as the apples were dumped into the cleaning solution and then shaken along the conveyer belt, onto a sorter "rack" that allowed the smaller apples to drop (sold at reduced price.) Then on to the cooler/freezer. It was already cold that day so the cooler, which might have been nice treat on a hot day, was not so nice on 50 degree day.

Then off to the pavillion for sampling. We tried dried apple chips and apple cider (cold).

All in all...it was a great day. We enjoyed the store, purchased some home made apple bread, apple cider and some boiled peanuts. If you don't know what boiled peanuts are...next time you're down south and see a home made sign that says "Boiled Peanuts"...STOP and get some. My husband Dave is from Michigan and had never had boiled peanuts until a couple years ago and now he can barely drive by a sign without stopping.

We love Jaemor Farms in north Georgia so if you're in the area...stop by and pick up some home made fritters (made with the fruit of the season), home made ice cream or some fresh produce. They also have some furniture made by local crafters, cement yard items, bird houses and much more. http://www.jamsjellies.com/index.asp