Strawberry picking at Terhune Orchards

The morning was bright, with the sun casting a warm glow and the air thick with humidity. Eager to make the most of it, we embarked on a short, early morning excursion to the nearby Terhune Orchards.

Terhune Orchards, situated in Lawrence Township, Mercer County, New Jersey, is a family-owned farm and winery established in 1975. Originally a 55-acre farm with apple, peach, and pear trees, it has evolved significantly. A vineyard was added in 2003.

Kiran enjoys a strawberry while Bhavna gives me her best smile. Sony CYBERSHOT + Sony @ 9.3 mm, f/5.6, ISO100
Bhavna and Kiran are enjoying the fresh fruit. Sony CYBERSHOT + Sony @ 21 mm, f/6.8, ISO100
Enjoying some cool treats. Sony CYBERSHOT + Sony @ 9.3 mm, f/4.0, ISO100

Shaan and Kiran were excited, gleefully picking and sampling fresh strawberries from the plants. After our fruitful endeavour, we sought respite in the farm's "shed," a welcome haven offering chilled apple cider and refreshing ice pops. It was a delightful way to cool down. This simple yet joyous visit to the orchard marked the perfect beginning to a wonderful day.

Cub Cadet. Sony CYBERSHOT + Sony @ 15.8 mm, f/8.0, ISO100
Enjoying some treats. Sony CYBERSHOT + Sony @ 21 mm, f/5.6, ISO100
Kiran. Sony CYBERSHOT + Sony @ 21 mm, f/8.0, ISO100

The farm spans over 200 acres and is recognised for its commitment to fresh, wholesome produce and quality products such as fresh-pressed cider, homemade baked goods, and gift baskets. The farm market, set in a 150-year-old barn, operates year-round. Terhune Orchards offers a variety of activities, including pick-your-own produce, wine tasting, and seasonal events, making it a popular destination for families and a key player in sustainable agriculture in the region.

Shaan and Kiran had the most fun feeding the animals on the farm, especially the ducks.

Feeding the chickens. Sony CYBERSHOT + Sony @ 7 mm, f/8.0, ISO100
Feeding the ducks. Sony CYBERSHOT + Sony @ 9.3 mm, f/8.0, ISO100

Shaan's 5th Birthday

Shaan celebrated his 5th birthday recently. My goodness, he is growing up so fast. He insisted that everything be blue. We had a blue cake with blue frosting and blue balloons, and all the guests were asked to wear blue. The kids had a blast making their own personalised cups cakes. They decorated their train-shaped mini-cakes with icing and various kinds of candy. Edible artwork. Yummy.

A very wet Kiran.

Water Balloon Fight | Saturday 15 May, 2004 | Sony CYBERSHOT | 21 mm | 1470 sec at f/4.8 | ISO 100

Part of the birthday fun included an exciting water balloon fight between the kids and the adults.

Falguni and Kiran | Saturday 15 May, 2004 | Sony CYBERSHOT | 21 mm | 1470 sec at f/4.8 | ISO 100

Near the end of the evening, we went out to the front porch to blow bubbles. They were some giant bubbles.

Saturday 15 May, 2004 | Sony CYBERSHOT | 7 mm | 190 sec at f/2.4 | ISO 100