Picking Cherries 🍒

Wow, 11 pounds of cherries! That's an amazing haul and truly a testament to a fun family day out. It reminds me so much of my own experiences, and I love how you're creating these precious memories with your girls. If you're inspired to try a family cherry picking adventure yourself, I wanted to share a few tips I've learned over the years to make it even more enjoyable and fruitful (pun intended!). First off, preparation is key! Before heading out, make sure everyone is dressed comfortably. Long sleeves and hats can protect against the sun, and closed-toe shoes are a must for navigating uneven orchard grounds. Don't forget sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of water to stay hydrated. We always bring our own pink buckets (or whatever color you have!) because sometimes the orchards provide flimsy bags, and a sturdy bucket makes it easier for little hands to carry their treasures without crushing them. When you're at the orchard, teach the kids how to pick properly. The best way to pick a cherry is to grasp the stem close to the branch and gently pull, trying to leave the stem attached to the cherry. This helps keep them fresh longer! It's so much fun watching their little faces light up when they find a perfect juicy red one. For those higher branches, portable ladders can be a game-changer, just make sure they're stable and adults supervise closely. It's truly a team effort, and even the smallest pickers can contribute to a bountiful harvest. After a successful picking spree, you might find yourself with a mountain of fruit, just like your impressive 6.036 pounds displayed on the scale! So, what do you do with all those delicious cherries? Eating them fresh, of course, is a top priority! They make amazing snacks, perfect for topping yogurt or ice cream. But with such a generous harvest, you'll want to think about preservation. Freezing is super easy: just wash, pit (if you prefer), and spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags. They’ll be perfect for smoothies or pies later. You could also try making homemade cherry jam, a delicious compote, or even a batch of cherryade. Beyond the fruit, the real treasure is the time spent together. These aren't just cherries; they're tangible memories of summer, laughter, and learning. Sharing these simple joys, like seeing where your food comes from and working together as a family, creates bonds that last a lifetime. So, go out there, embrace the sticky fingers and sweet rewards, and make your own unforgettable cherry picking memories!