I took some time off from writing the past few weeks but I wanted to share with you the wonderful time that I had at Justus Orchard when I volunteered with ASAP’s annual farm tour. This beautiful place is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains just outside of Hendersonville. Once you get there, be prepared to relax and enjoy yourself because there is a lot to do and see. In September, U pick was in full swing but right now the apples are only available already picked. They will be open for about another week. Check out what is still available:
http://www.justusorchard.com.temp.realssl.com/?page_id=3
I walked alongside the beautiful orchard and stopped to take a few pictures. There were a series of “cow cars” that are pulled by the tractor that look like a lot of fun for children. There is also a bakery featuring apple pie, cider donuts, apple cider, caramel apples and apple bread for a little treat. If you are in need of a meal, there was also boiled peanuts and barbeque for sale. You will feel very welcomed by the family in addition to having a wonderful time and some delicious apples.
Local apples are rich in Vitamin C, quercetin, a plant chemical beneficial to health and the soluble fiber pectin. Some of my favorite ways to eat apples are with a little peanut butter, “sautéed with some cabbage” or try my very favorite way a fall apple crisp
http://healthconceptsnutrition.com/blog/?p=53
If you miss out on the apples this year, be sure to put it on your itinerary for next fall for something fun to do. You can also visit to stop by for blackberries July-August and Peaches August-September. You can check out their website for availability or call at 243-2420 or 243-7235.
My daughter-in-law, Victoria, son, Noah and grandchildren Sparrow and Wiley were also on the farm tour that weekend. Victoria was one of the winners of the ASAP Farm Tour photo contest:
http://fromhere.org/events/2013-farm-tour-photo-contest/
Here is Sparrow in the “Down the Row” photo:
http://www.mountainx.com/article/53343/ASAP-farm-tour-photo-winners
Congratulations Victoria! I am so lucky to have a wonderful and talented daughter-in-law like you!
