Apple Picking

One of the best things about bringing home an older child is seeing things through their eyes. We take so much for granted, even the little things. Liam was lucky enough to be in the Shanghai orphanage. I say lucky, because as an older child in an orphanage, it's not as terrible as some. This orphanage has many corporate sponsors and the kids do get out to see things like the zoo and the expo. But honestly, there is a difference between going to the zoo or an aquarium on a field trip and going with family. So even though Liam has seen things that surprise us, when he's seen things with us, it's truly like he's seeing them for the first time because we are doing those things as a family. I know that Liam has never gone apple picking. This is something we do each fall, the kids love it, and it never gets old. Liam had a blast, although he did have a penchant for choosing the biggest, heaviest ($$) apples in the orchard. There was a children's area with petting zoo, pony rides, camel rides and play structures. There was also a magic show by none other than Magic Dave, the magician from his birthday party. Liam felt like quite the celebrity high fiving his old friend. He had a wonderful day and I just love watching him check things out. We only had one moment of anxiety when I had to go to a different area of the train, and left him with auntie Debbie. I could see he was anxious, but once he realized he could still see me I think he was ok. When we were waiting for the return train he wanted to make sure I would be closer to him. Apparently he hasn't figured out that I can't sit too close or I can't take his picture. It was a wonderful day, the weather was gorgeous, the apples were plentiful and the kids were photogenic.

Getting ready to board the train for the orchards.
Back row, L to R, cousin Michael, Brittany, Madison, Ashley
Front row, L to R, Liam, Shaun and cousin Noah


4 year old Noah


Shaun and Maddie on the train.


Shaun, Maddie, Noah, Ashley and Michael on the train.


Brittany, thinking she can get out of the photos by sitting next to me. HAHA, think again, my pretty. And Liam on his first ride through the orchards.


Yay Shaun, he picked the first apple of the day!


This just breaks my heart. I wish there were some way to sort these apples and get them to where people are hungry. It seems like such a waste. Many of these are just apples that get knocked down during picking, then nobody wants them. Very sad.


Liam picking his first apple EVER! and yes, it's almost as big as his head!


Noah's turn.


Are these apples huge or what?


Brit's turn. I think this is a heart shaped apple. Brit thinks it's an apple shaped apple.


Maddie, ready for her closeup.


The whole gang. No, do not adjust your computer. Yes, Liam is 8 and Noah is 4....


Just reach in and grab one! But make sure to look at the camera and smile while doing it!


Just the apple, Ashley honey. Lets leave the tree behind.


That's better.


Liam and cousin Michael (notice the hat)


Eating the "fruits of our labor", yeah I know, bad pun.


Just look at this face!!!!


At the petting zoo area. Liam was "one" with the donkey. He loved all the animals. (notice the hat)


The view of the road behind us. Liam was very disappointed that none of us was tall enough to reach the grapes off the arbor.


On the train heading back to the barn. I was smart enough to sit BEHIND everyone!


Noah, smiling for his adoring fans.


yes folks, this is what 5 years and thousands of dollars in orthodontia will get ya. Look at that smile!