Day Trip #8
Thursday, October 14, 2021
You’ve seen this image before, but today I am testing out a new lens. This is horseshoe island in the Mississippi River as viewed from Mt. Hosmer Park in Lansing, IA. Today’s photos are all taken with my new 7Artisans 55mm f/1.4. This lens provides a much tighter view than we have seen from my 23mm.
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/180 sec, f/Manual, ISO 160
Another view up the Mississippi River from Mt. Hosmer Park.
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55m, 1/850 sec, f/Manual, ISO 160
Gays Mills, WI is known for their apple orchards and considers itself the apple capital of Wisconsin. Entering the town there is this sculpture depicting their claim to fame.
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/750 sec, f/Manual, ISO 160
Even before you get to Gays Mills you start to encounter the orchards. This is the first large orchard when arriving from Mt. Sterling, WI. We have found this to be the best place to get squash; well, the second-best place actually…. The BEST squash comes from Gloria & Jim Pflughoeft!
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/1000 sec, f/Manual, ISO 160
Our Picture This App tells us this is a Crookneck squash; we will have to take its word for it. West Ridge Orchard.
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/2900 sec, f/Manual, ISO 160
Pumpkins abound in every size, shape, and color available. West Ridge Orchard.
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/2400 sec, f/Manual, ISO 160
Dogs are welcome outside at West Ridge Orchard. In keeping with the diversity movement all are welcome and can decide which option works best for their necessary business.
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/850 sec, f/Manual, ISO 160
After passing through the small town of Gays Mills, continue up the steep hill on Hwy 171 and you will arrive at Orchard Ridge. Here you will find several orchards in rapid succession. Sunrise Orchard is by far the largest and has the best apples, cider donuts, and many other treats.
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/6400 sec, f/Manual, ISO 160
At Sunrise Orchard these near-perfect specimens are actually considered “seconds” and are discounted accordingly. The #1 apples are even more perfect. You can’t find better apples anywhere!
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/55 sec, f/Manual, ISO 3200
Dogs are also welcome here and they have a few games and swings for the kids.
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/2500 sec, f/Manual, ISO 160
They grow apples differently than I remember from my youth. These are the new shape of apple trees in the foreground. They are no longer tall trees, but more like short bushes and they are absolutely PACKED densely with apples. These trees can be completely picked without the need for a ladder. Technology at work in the agricultural industry.
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/100 sec, f/Manual, ISO 160
The Kickapoo Orchard sign states “since 1914”, we think that is when the sign was made as well!!
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/4000 sec, f/Manual, ISO 160
The view from behind the Kickapoo Orchard building. The foliage is clearly past-peak, but it is a beautiful valley nonetheless. Catch it during peak color and it is breathtaking. The corn and sunflower maze is in the foreground.
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/300 sec, f/Manual, ISO 160
Inside the Kickapoo Orchard. They have various locally made products, including wine. However, as good as their apples may be, the wine leaves a bit to be desired - Napa Valley it is NOT.
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/80 sec, f/Manual, ISO 1250
I remember these from my childhood; bubble gum and candy cigarette sticks. How are these even still made in the year 2021?!?!
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/80 sec, f/Manual, ISO 400
Click on this image of the Kickapoo River Museum or the button below to view the video of today’s trip.
Fujifilm X-Pro3 55mm, 1/950 sec, f/Manual, ISO 160
