Full disclosure: Okay - so, growing up in the U.P., we never really did the cider mill thing - a troll tradition akin to Santa on Christmas. And, until now I've managed to forgo cider mill initiation. I don't like cider. I don't find farms all that titilating. I don't get a thrill from riding on a pokey hay bale, in a rattle-trap trailer, behind a noisy John Deere, to pluck a gourd from a muddy field. And I certainly don't need to pay to do any of these things. So, until now, I've dodged cider mills. But, my daughter is a native troll. And, trolls do cider mills. So, add it to the list of loathed things this parent will do for her child.
I admit, however, that Long's website was especially enticing. The freaky spring weather meant there were no apples to pick in the orchard (score!). And they had this giant inflatable pillow bouncy thing. And a slide. And a pumpkin cannon.
Soooooo - we joined the masses for a romp at Long's.
You've undoubtedly noticed the best supporting actor in our photos of late.
Mr. Graham Cracker. Won't go anywhere without him. Classy.
Mr. Graham Cracker. Won't go anywhere without him. Classy.
Lost it's luster pretty quick. For her. Not me.
Mr. Graham Cracker in hand, of course.
Pumpkin cannon fabulous.
How far does it shoot? Quarter-mile.
I think Grandpa Bob has a new retirement project to think about...
If not for himself, for her.
Slide? Not so much.
Despite my trepidation, I was glad we went. It was a beautiful day with my wonderful family.
(And I won't lie - that pillow thing was hella-cool.)
