A “Chique” Family Tradition

As the temperature drops and the leaves begin to turn, I am reminded of one of my all time favorite Fall traditions growing up, visiting the Franklin Cider Mill. The simple thought of hot baked doughnuts and fresh cider makes my mouth water. For as long as I can remember, we have been making this a tradition that I won’t let die.

I remember being mesmerized by the old fashion water wheel that powered the gigantic cider press.  I could have watched for hours the men pressing layer after layer of fresh apples into cider.  The picture below is evidence of how long we have been indulging in this family event.  Here we are gnawing on a candy apple and doughnut circa 1976.  By the way, doesn’t my mom look “Chique” for a trip to the Cider Mill?

Even now living in Chicago, there is not an Autumn that goes by that we don’t make a concerted effort to hit the local Michigan Cider mill.  I know there are some great orchards and such in Southern Illinois & Indiana, but there is something special about sharing my hometown memories with the boys. So this past weekend we made the trek to see my parents and the big Sunday event was a trip to Yates Cider Mill.

The boys loved it!  And not just for the sweet treats, but they fed the animals, threw rocks in the river and watched the water wheel power the fresh cider press! What a “Chique” way to kick off Fall! Do you have any special family traditions that you love to share with your kids?

P.S. My mom made me change my outfit because she thought I was too overdressed for the occassion? Hmmm, wonder where that comes from? Us Turrigiano’s are not known for blending!