Foodie Fall Trips

Autumn is here and that means road trips usually to see the glory of changing leaves. Yet  it could also be a time to enjoy some of the yummy foods associated with that area. Try some homemade apple cider or a wedge of sharp cheddar during a pit stop. Pick up some apples or even pumpkins for decorating or cooking.

Most folks from the New York metro area and Boston head to New England. Vermont and New Hampshire may have some glorious displays but they also have endless farms and regional specialties. Of course Vermont is known for it's maple syrup and it pays to stop and pick some up, There are also creameries that turn out wheels of fine cheddar as well namely, the Cabot creamery which has branches all over New England. Apple pie is the state pie so stop and either treat yourself to a slice or buy one to bring home. Some bakeries will sell a bread particular to that region, a sweet loaf called anadama. This originated in the fishing villages of Massachusetts and wove its way to other New England states. It's a sweet loaf, thanks to molasses and a mix of cornmeal, wheat and rye flour.It can also be found in Massachusetts too, namely in smaller bakeries throughout the region If you're visiting New Hampshire for leaf looking  then try the  Canadian born tortiere , a meat pie filled with cubed game meat and potatoes.

Of course New Jersey and New York along with Connecticut and Pennsylvania offer some amazing foliage as well. The Garden State has pick your own farms nestled in between the golds and reds. Go to these to pick your own pears and apples along with pumpkins. In between New York State's majestic oaks and maples are there not only farms but wineries too. This is the season that they offer tours and tastings so definitely book one if you're in the area.. Best of all some are only a skip away from Manhattan with vineyards out on Long Island's Suffolk County and right over the Jersey  border in Orange ,Rockland and Sullivan Counties. Connecticut and Pennsylvania have some lovely farms too. Like NJ and NY farms , these have everything from cider  and freshly baked cinnamon doughnuts along with candy apples , honey and different pies. Some even offer homemade fudge and sticky buns too.

Take a ride to enjoy the fall foliage but also to sample the delicious harvests and treats country farms have to offer. It's a fun way to enjoy the area even more. Celebrate the tree's glory with a cup of cider and a fresh baked cinnamon doughnut or slice of real Vermont cheddar.

Meals On The Go

September means busy schedules and meals literally on the go. Your Saturdays may well be spent on the soccer field or at your hiking club. With this comes the question what to eat and where. The best and most nutritious bet is make your own meals and tote them with you.

Sandwiches are the easiest to bring along. They're quick and simple to make, store and eat. There's minimal fuss. For variation , bring along wraps or pita sandwiches that you ad your family will enjoy. You can make peanut butter and jelly pitas for your little soccer stars to eat. A nice wrap that has turkey or chicken along with fresh chopped veggies is another easy but vitamin enriched meal. Regular old fashioned sandwiches are also a good choice. The best ones are often the hero style , with your favorite meats and veggies on a cut up baguette. These are even great for those weekends at the beach where you want a simple but filling picnic lunch. Also pack some sandwiches for those drives to see early fall foliage. There are always rest stops where you can take a break and refresh yourselves. Also this is the season to really enjoy nature up close. Pack some hearty ham and cheese on pumpernickel in a backpack and go a walking!

Soup is also another good take along, especially as the weather progressively becomes cooler. They're easy to put into a thermos and take with you. Plus a cup of hot minestrone, tomato or chicken is revitalizing to get your though the rest of a busy day. Nix any salads. Pack some veggies if you want or a better choice is the season's apples and pears.

What to drink ? Soda is good but you may want to stick with lemonade or iced tea. Carbonated drinks tend to bring on thirst quicker.Also if you're lucky to have it already a thermos of ice cold, sparkling cider is always good. Water is the surest bet when you're engaged in any activity. It hydrates quickly and you' don't need to drink it as often as with a flavored drink. Have a thermos of something hot, whether it's ,tea, coffee or hot chocolate to finish off the meal.

This fall, you'll definitely be on the go somewhere. This means eating in the car, on the sidelines or in the middle of nature's fall beauty. Have a simple meal ready t o keep up with your busy schedule.