Take a family outing to an apple orchard and pick a peck or a bushel.

Description:
No wonder the apple tempted Eve? It's one of nature's most wonderful creations! Some facts about this favorite fruit: An average size apple has only eighty calories. An apple contains almost no fat or sodium. An apple is high in complex carbohydrates, giving a boost of energy that lasts longer than the temporary effect of refined sugar. An apple is rich in dietary fiber. Apples can be used in main dishes, for snacks, in desserts, and turned into beverages.

So, before you lug home a ten-pound bag of apples from the supermarket, consider a family outing that takes you straight to the source?an orchard where you can pick apples right off the tree.

Step by Step:

1. Locate an orchard near you by calling your state agriculture department, checking in your local paper, or searching online.
2. Whether you pick a peck or a bushel (a peck is eight quarts; a bushel is four pecks), you may want to top off the trip with a picnic under the trees. Be sure to wash any apples you intend to eat on the spot. Commercial farms generally use pesticides.
3. Once home, wrap your apples in newspaper and store them in a cool, dry place. (Wash apples to remove newsprint before eating.) Remove any that become mushy. One bad apple really can spoil the whole bunch!

Materials:
A picnic lunch
A picnic blanket
A hungry family
Newspaper for the apples