I am not sure if I took this to show the old barn or because of the John Deere....every time I see a John Deere tractor it reminds me of working at the orchard. I can't say that I put in a lot of hours on it, though I did my share. But it was my constant companion during apple picking season. The John Deere I started with was older than this...but not ancient.
A new one was bought sometime after 2001, but I don't remember the exact year. In the orchard, the tractor has to have so many horsepower to pull the sprayer. I can't remember how big, but the tractor also has to be small enough to through the orchard without knocking off apples.
When I first started working at the orchard, I picked into crates on a wagon. Then in the last half or so of the time I worked there, I picked into bins that were on this sled type of thing. They called it a mudboat. I have missed those days this fall...it was a lot of fun even if it was hard work. I usually picked from a cherry picker...but I absolutely loved to pick with a pack from the ground because I could just fly.
What terrific memories you're sharing! And the John Deere, a staple, and a classic!
ReplyDeleteRose: I enjoyed your story of flying as you picked.
ReplyDeleteFishing Guy--haha....I see the picture now of me sprouting wings.
ReplyDeleteI like the look of an older tractor. The classic ones are wonderful. The new ones just aren't as appealing.
ReplyDeleteGreat newspaper clipping. I really like the photo of the barn behind the trees. Hope Lorelei begins to feel better quickly...well, all of you need to feel better quickly!
ReplyDeleteThe John Deere emerging from the barn is my favorite today with the whole barn and tractor coming in second. I could imagine the thrill of being hoisted up into a tree to pick. I enjoyed hearing about your orchard days!
ReplyDeleteNice pictures Rose! That tree, if planted, was planted within a foot of the barn.
ReplyDeleteBoth tractors and barns are great subjects for photos, Rose. ;-) Nice pics and memories!
ReplyDelete