On the way to visit Meme and Poppy, we happened to pass a “Pick Your Own Peaches” orchard. Everyone should have the experience of picking their own food at least once in their lifetime. I think it helps one feel connected to the earth, and not to take something as simple as eating for granted. It also reinforces to young children that a grocery store is not the source of food, but our nation’s farmers; natural, healthy food comes from the dirt, not a can. So,of course we had to stop!
As a more experienced picker, it is my opinion that the best fruit is not really at 36 inches or less. I also know that fruit can be turned into wonderful ice cream! Pickle at first was not sure what to do. I showed him the peaches on the tree, how to gently pluck the fruit and softly put it in the bucket to avoid bruising. This led to a mad dash from one end of the orchard to the other, yanking peaches from their peach-laden limbs and, channeling Kevin Durant of the Oklahoma Thunder, dunking them in our plastic container. He had a great time! It was difficult for me to let him enjoy the experience, but I held my tongue and let him pick bruised ones, pick green ones, pick hard as stone ones, and pick the wormy ones. The end result is that we made a great memory. Isn’t that what it’s all about?
By my calculations, two plastic containers of preschool-picked peaches equal just enough for home-made ice cream. We decided ice cream is definitely better when you pick your own ingredients!
playfulyetplanned 