So, of course, I went there yesterday and picked the entire tree clean and cleaned up the windfallen fruits from the ground. I have been using the apples as treats for the goats and offered some to the chickens, geese and pigs. They were very happy to have them too and have been enjoying the apples. Another person had free apples in Bonnyville and I went there as well and picked about 30 pounds.
These apples do not keep well or long, so they have to be processed quickly. I have eaten a whole lot of them. They are a bit mushy in texture for the type of apple I prefer, but they are tasty and local and organic and FREE, so what is there to complain about? I am gratefrul for these kind souls who offered the fruits rather than let them go to waste.
I have some dehydrators and would love to dehydrate the apples for winter use. The problem is that in the midst of moving, with one more load to come over from the farmhouse, I do not have the space to process them. I am still trying to find places for two kitchens full of implements, dishes, utensils and pots and pans, plus food. I had depleted the food stores, but there were staples to bring over and staples already here. Oy!
The goats, I must say, are the biggest fans of the apples. Once they drop it to the ground they will not eat it though. This is nature's way of protecting them from ingesting worms from their feces, a good thing. So I have been hand feeding them the treats. Oh the joy! They do not have teeth on the top and must gum and bite until they get a chunk to send to the back molars, which are like sharp grinding blades. I have gotten my fingers in there from time to time and was lucky to have them out in one piece, abeit a little sore and bruised and chewed.
Anyhow, I am blessed to recieve this bounty. Would you like a fresh apple?