My two buddies and I, recently visited a local apple orchard store.  It is was a
clear, sunny day and they were happy to go on this fun adventure. 

There were colorful and "fresh from the farm" products, filling the stands on every isle.

The store is right along side of it's own huge, apple orchard.  Big, lush, ripe apples filled
every bin.

Inside the orchard store, the shelves were also filled with big, perfectly formed apples of many
different varieties.  It was difficult to make a decision as to which ones we should buy.

We brought them home, scrubbed them, peeled them, (they are like me, and prefer their
apples peeled), and cut them up for a snack.

Then I did the same with the rest of the apples, because I looked forward to making the "raw
apple cake recipe"  that I found on the blog, "Stonegable".  It is an exceptionally beautiful
blog, and Yvonne shares so many great recipes.  If you want to make a delicious apple,
walnut cake, you can find the recipe here;
http://www.stonegableblog.com/

Her "Roasted Cheddar Cauliflower" soup, is one I want to try, too.

The recipe calls for three cups of cut up apples, and that is the reason that it tastes so good!

Chocked full of apples and walnuts.  I chose to make the batter into small
loaves, and large sized muffins.

Quite a while ago, I purchased a pack of bright colored, apple tea towels and dish
cloths.  I took two of the dish cloths, folded it in thirds and wrapped the two little
apple loaves, tying the packages with green, coordinating ribbon.

Two tiny gifts, that originated from the our visit to the local

apple orchard.

The weekend is ahead.  I hope you enjoy time with family and

friends, on this Columbus Day holiday!

If you have the opportunity, indulge in a big, sweet tasting apple, and

think of me:)