October 17. 2021~ Hartland Orchard, Markham, Va.

 

Sunday, October 17, 2021......Pumpkin patches, apple orchards, corn mazes, hay rides, farm animals, tractor pulls...... and an abundance of 'fall-scented' edible delights(who doesn't like apple cinnamon doughnuts, warm cider, kettle corn, homemade apple butter, or caramel dipped apples?). 

Sunday was (a perfect weather fall day) a 'bucket-list-adventure' for our daughter. The trip to pick apples was also a first for 2 of our grandkids. Their wide-eyes and open mouths displayed their excitement("What do you mean apples and pumpkins don't come from Kroger?")! Hartland Orchard is located in Markham, Virginia, in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. Hartland is an old family working farm and orchard with scenic country side vistas near the Skyline Drive. (WORKING, key word here, as these families and employees know the meaning of HARD MANUAL LABOR.) 

We were thrilled to be climbing up onto the McCormick FARMALL tractor!

It was a 'first experience' for us 😂.

The pick-your-own seasonal peaches, tomatoes, and berries were 'history'. Many of the apples had been picked, but the generous abundance available was obviously plentiful.

Surprisingly, the fruit that fell from the trees to the ground was plentiful.

We learned to use the 'fruit picker'.

Sometimes, it was quicker and easier to jump and grab!

And on several occasions, some of the mushy, fermented apples on the ground, made for a few comical 'slip-and-slides'.😁

The Grands were thrilled to pick their own apples. 

Time stood still long enough for us to visit with our daughter. #priceless

Hartland Orchard includes cattle and horses. 

The Grands were able to be as close as they wanted, without touching!

..... as well as experience that down-home-country-smell...😂😂😂

The pick-your-own pumpkin field was plentiful.

The family-run farm housed a shop full of treats........ ready to purchase and devour.

Our Sunday adventure was exhilarating, action-packed with laughter!

.......and memories......... we made lots of memories!💓