FORT BENNING, Ga., (June 4, 2014) -- Have you made your Father's Day plans yet? I have a suggestion - blueberry picking in the morning and Robin Beach at Callaway Gardens in the afternoon. Sounds fun, right?
My favorite spot to go is A&J Farms, near Pine Mountain, Georgia.
Retired Col. Jack and Anne Story offer a military discount. When I called the Storys the other day about this year's season, Anne told me the blueberries are running a little late because of the cooler nights and wetter weather this spring. The upshot of a later season is later harvest. Anne said there should be ripe blueberries after June 10 and for much of July. The price for "U Pick" is $10 a gallon or $8 with military ID.
The Storys provide baskets for picking and paper bags to put the berries in for transport.
I love to spend time with the Storys, as do others. Ann told me about a couple of Soldiers who went to pick several years ago after redeploying. They spent the afternoon sitting in the shade talking with Jack. It's very relaxing.
A year or so ago, Anne suggested that folks who come to pick blueberries should plan to spend the day in the area, enjoying the beach at Robin Lake at Callaway Gardens. There is a military discount, also. Callaway Gardens is just around the corner from A&J Farms. Pack a picnic lunch, bring a cooler to keep the blueberries in, and splash around with the kids.
I love Robin Lake. When my daughter was younger, this is where I would take her and a couple of friends to play and swim. Back then it was mostly just a beach, but she said she remembers watching people play volleyball. Now it has huge inflatables with a water fountain, a stage for musical acts and a 1.25-mile walking path around the lake's perimeter.
Information for blueberry picking:
Retired Col. Jack and Anne Story own A&J Farms,
6876 Hamilton Pleasant Grove Road,
Pine Mountain, Georgia, 31822.
Phone: 706-663-8352.
Information for Robin Beach at Callaway Gardens:
Every Friday and Saturday beginning at 5 p.m., admission to Callaway Gardens' Robin Lake Beach becomes $5*.
Fabulous Fridays - Music, Circus & Movies on the Beach
Saturday Sunset DJ, Circus and Music Series
Admission* for these nights is $5 per adult; $2.50 per child age 6 to 12 and free for children 5 and younger. Admission is complimentary for annual pass holders and military (active duty and retired with ID) and half-price for up to four guests in the same vehicle. Veterans (with ID) receive half-price admission for themselves.
- www.callawaygardens.com
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