The weather has changed. Some of us are happy about that, some aren’t. Since the holidays are just around the corner, we have a lot to do. So, get your mind in the holiday mood. But until then, check out the local produce and planting stock. You should find lots of apples, winter squash and some lovely chrysanthemums. This is also the time to plant some bulbs for the spring. If you need some inspiration, take a trip to your local horticulture center.

You still have time to decorate your yard for Halloween. My family says it is almost their favorite holiday (Christmas still wins, hands down). They love fall and the cooler weather, the football games, apple cider and marshmallow roasts….and dressing up in silly costumes. What fun!!

Latest article:
Door County, Wisconsin
The article this week will tell you about my drive through Door County, Wisconsin. Just outside Green Bay, this peninsula has a charm all its own.
Link: http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art47212.asp

Featured link: Do you have questions about apples? What are the different varieties? How do you use them? Where can you find them? Eat them raw or cook them, which is the most nutritious? Find answers to these and many other questions on this week’s featured link.
Link: http://www.allaboutapples.com/index.htm

Do you want to know more about the Great Lakes? Do you have comments you would like to make about things you’ve read here? Visit us on the forum and make your voice heard.
Here’s a link to the forum: http://forums.bellaonline.com/ubbthreads.php?ubb=postlist&Board=332

Newsletter Tip: You can make your own delicious apple butter right in your crock pot or slow cooker. There are recipes galore on the internet. Start with applesauce or fresh apples. The choice is yours. Add the spices you like and watch your family’s eyes light up when you serve hot biscuits and homemade apple butter.

Newsletter Trivia: Johnny Appleseed is considered the father of apple orchards throughout the Midwest. He spent many years of his life selling and giving away apple trees. Some of them are probably still bearing fruit. There are Johnny Appleseed Festivals in: Fort Wayne, Indiana; Crystal Lake, Illinois; Sheffield, Pennsylvania; Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania; Mapleside Farms in Brunswick, Ohio; and Auglaize Village and Museum in Defiance, Ohio and probably lots more.
Please visit greatlakes.bellaonline.com for even more great content about the Great Lakes.

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Pam Cartwright, Great Lakes Editor
http://greatlakes.bellaonline.com

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