On Tuesday morning, Megan and I drove upstate in search of a farm stand where we could find a perfect pumpkin. After a few false starts and wrong turns (tow trucks and temperamental GPS systems were involved) we arrived at Fishkill Farms, which happens to be owned by the family of a good friend of Kendrick’s (I discovered this only when said friend came strolling across the pumpkin patch towards me).

There’s just nothing better than a crisp apple in October. 

The best apples for eating: McIntosh (my favorite), Gala, Pink Lady, Red Delicious, Cameo, Braeburn, Cortland. 

The best apples for baking: Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Pink Lady, Gala, Braeburn, Cortland, Winesap.

Note: When making pies (and yes, I will post my apple pie recipe one of these days), I like to combine a bunch of different varieties; I think this makes the pie more substantial and complex.