It’s Apple Picking Time

We don’t look at fall as the end of outdoor fun and excitement, because there is so much to explore and enjoy about harvest season -- the cool breeze gently blowing, the speckled leaves beginning to change colors, and the orchards opening for business. Apple picking is a great weekend activity for the whole family, and the best part (besides the apple cider donuts that you can’t leave the orchard without trying) is going home and creating delicious recipes with your bounty. Before you go, here’s what you’ll need:

In the Bag

Many orchards are asking visitors to bring their own bags these days, in an effort to reduce the use of plastic bags, which sometimes get left behind on the orchard grounds. Your best bet is either a sturdy canvas bag or even a reusable nylon grocery bag – anything that can hold at least 10 pounds of apples. Bags-Purses-Totes.com has canvas tote bags in a variety of sizes and colors, and right now they are offering 5% off of any $50 purchase.

Protect Your Hands

Just like in the Wizard of Oz, some apple trees make it difficult to pull the fruit from their branches, thus making gardening gloves (and a little force) a necessity. Ideally, gloves intended for weeding and planting bushes are what you should look for, because, aside from the stubborn trees, some orchards loan visitors large metal clippers to use, and gloves may protect you from injury. OnlyGloves.com has a great collection of Bionic Elite gardening gloves and if you nab a pair right now, you won’t pay shipping on your $49 purchase.

All in the Tread

Despite your desire to wear flip flops throughout the fall, you can’t climb hills, walk through mud or step between trees without stable footwear. Comfortable boots, such as Carolina Boots, or supportive shoes, such as Merrell shoes, are great options. Shoeline.com is offering free shipping on any purchase, and they just so happen to sell Carolina Boots. Altrec.com, an online outdoor superstore, is currently having a Merrell sale – it’s fate I tell you, fate!


Jean-ius
Denim, originally created for gold miners to wear while searching for gilded treasure, has become somewhat of a uniform among individuals who work with their hands for a living, so what better clothing to wear when you’re bound to get your hands dirty, right?  Kmart.com wants to help your hubby (or son) find the right pair, so right now he can get Wrangler, Levi’s or Route 66 jeans for 10% off their retail price. For you Mom, Sears.com is offering 5% off your $50 purchase, so you and your daughter can stock up on jeans from Levi’s, Columbia or Route 66.
Save some apples for us, okay!