Fall is almost here! It is truly my favorite time of the year. One of our favorite family activities is to attend a pumpkin patch. We’re lucky that most of the farms around here really go all out for Fall. They have corn mazes, train rides, inflatables, petting zoos, plus the pumpkin patch and farm stand.

In years past we have gone out to Tolmachoff Farms and we will be headed back there this year too! Tolmachoff Farms is a four generation family owned and operated farm that is now in the middle of Phoenix. You can check out the Tolmachoff Farms website for more details about visiting the farm plus a 10% off produce coupon.  Here are a few of the fun things we did last time we visited.

 Once you get to the pumpkin patch, it’s time to pick the perfect pumpkin. Here’s some tips for picking a great pumpkin.

• You can test a pumpkin for ripeness by pressing it with a thumbnail. A ripe pumpkin will have a hard shell that doesn’t scratch easily. Only try this on the bottom of the pumpkin. You don’t want to mar a bunch of pumpkins. 
• Check for splits or soft spots. You want to pick a new pumpkin if you find either.
• Holes in pumpkins mean insect activity, so skip those ones too. 
• Don’t carry the pumpkin by the stem. It might break off and the stem adds so much character. 
• Pumpkins that are still green in spots may not ripen further. Unless you like the green look, move on.
• It may be useful to bring a wagon. Pumpkins can be heavy!

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