For the last 3 years, Dan and I have made an annual trip out to Apple Holler to go apple picking, stock up on apple cider donuts and just get out of downtown Chicago for the day. In fact, I distinctly remember on our trip last year, I had a conversation with Dan about how this may be the last time we here as the two of us.
Well, I was right!
This year we had our permanent plus one and it was a totally different experience than it has been in the past (and we loved every second of it). I had so much anxiety leading up to this day. I knew I wanted to keep our tradition going, but the thought of pushing a newborn around in a stroller through an apple orchard made me dizzy.
Everyone told me that “wearing” a baby is super easy, but for some reason I hadn’t tried it yet. Our trip to Apple Holler felt like the perfect time to whip out my Ergo Baby Adapt and give it a try.
All I have to say is, THANK GOD for this invention. Not only was it easy to put on, but Elia loved it. I think the motion of me rocking as I walked around made her feel like she was back in my tummy. She literally passed out the second we put her in. The Ergo Baby Adapt also kept my hands free which is really helpful as I was getting on the train to head out to the apple orchard.
If you haven’t been to Apple Holler before, it’s seriously the best! It’s only about an hour outside Chicago and has over 30,000 apple trees (I’m dead serious). The orchard is huge! Depending on the season, you can also pick peaches, pumpkins and pears as well.
My husband, Dan, is obsessed with the pears.
I however go straight for the Mcintosh apples!
The best part about Apple Holler? When you’re out in the orchard it’s, “all you can eat”! They actually encourage you to try every variety while your out there. Since there are over 30 different kinds, you need to bring your appetite!
Having Elia with us was seriously the best. It brought a whole new meaning to our annual tradition and I can’t wait to make more memories with my little family.
Now the most important question…
What do I do with all the apples we picked!?
Love always,
Erica
What a lovely story and day for you guys…
I love this post so much! Such a fun and cute day with your family and I think it’s amazing you get to go out and explore nature with your little one! Super cool, keep it up!