apples.

Last weekend we headed up to the beach for a much needed enjoyable long weekend. With the new house and new baby this summer we didn't get to spend as many weekends as we usually do relaxing by the beach. The kids just love it up there and we have our usual routine of things we like to do. Saturday started out with a trip to their favorite "junk store" aka local thrift store to hunt for new books and toys. We then headed to the local grocery store to pick up a few things for dinner and ride the horses. These metal horses are so old but so fun and the kids love them.

 In the afternoon we ventured down to the beach. Matt was still back home working on the house (always another project!) so it was just Grandma Kathy, me and the kids. Carter and Lucy spent over 1.5 hours just walking and exploring on the driftwood. I was so proud of how well Lucy kept up with him, climbing over trees and stumps without any fear (of course I left my camera at home so just imagine 2 cute kids on the beach!).
We got home and Simon had a little tummy time on the floor. He's getting so big and strong and I just love this phase. He's more expressive, smiling and cooing all the time. I have a feeling he's going to try and keep up with his older siblings pretty darn quick.

 Matt met us up at the beach house Saturday night and took over Simon duty for a bit so I could relax.

 On Sunday we made our traditional trip up to Bellewood Acres to go apple picking. There are some great places closer to our house but I'm a huge fan of traditions so we drive north. The kids look forward to it every year and I think it's a great lesson in teaching them more about farm to table eating. It felt like our first fall day too, which was perfect for the setting. Crisp air, sun breaking through the clouds and a little big of mud in the fields.

 We played for a bit in the kids area before boarding the apple train out to the orchards.

 The kids got right to work searching for the perfect apples.

 Usually honey crisp apples aren't quite ready for u-pick when we go but with our warm summer they were just right for picking and snacking. So, we all found a giant one and had a snack, right in the middle of the orchard.

 After picking a little over 40 lbs we went back to the farm to play and have a snack. The kids could have really stayed here all day.

 Simon finally woke up from his long nap to look around too. He wasn't too impressed. Next year buddy, I promise, you'll love it.

 On Monday we came home and set up the kitchen for a giant applesauce party. It's so fun now that the kids are a little older to help with some of the jobs. Carter was on peeling duty and did so great! Matt and Lucy tackled the chopping and I did the cooking and canning.

 Yum!!!! This is the best applesauce.  I think we may need more apples next year.