he likes them apples

Jude went apple picking for the first time in his whole life this fall. We trecked out to Kuipers Family Farm, about an hour west of Chicago. For $7.50 per adult we got our small bag and free reign of the impressive orchard. Usually they include a wagon ride tour, but it was freezing and fairly muddy from recent rains. They also don't usually allow strollers, but the bugaboo got to come along due to the cold weather.

the apple orchard

Kuipers has several kids attractions. We skipped the jump, climb, and pumpkin patch area this year. But jude still got to check out a tractor up close.

this is not a tonka toy!

One of the fun new parts of our adventure was Jude's new ability to walk. You can see how he felt when the steps went well....

the thrill of victory!

...and when they didn't...

the agony of Da Feet

Jude managed to enjoy taking adorable baby bites from several varities of apples before we all gave up and went inside to warm up. It was 40-something degrees and windy. brrr.

a mouthful of teeth comes in handy

It was great to be together as a family for the day, inspite of the weather. And we enjoyed the fruits of our labor for several weeks.

kara is jealous of his blanket

Kuipers Family Farm, way out past Aurora.