Selenga opened her eyes.
Sunlight streamed through the curtains. Golden and warm.
A sound came from the kitchen. The sound of squeezing. Click, click.
“Dad?” Selenga whispered.
She got up and walked slowly toward the sound.
In the Kitchen
There was Dad, cutting oranges in half and pressing them into the juicer. Fresh orange juice flowed into a glass.
Orange. Bright. The color of sunshine.
“Selenga!” Dad said when he saw her. "You're awake. Come here."
Selenga joined him and watched.
“How many oranges did you use?” she asked.
“Three. Two for you, one for me.”
“Why two for me?”
"Because you're growing. Growing kids need vitamins."
Squeezing
“Can I try?” Selenga asked.
Dad handed her an orange. She cut it in half, placed it in the juicer, and pressed down with both hands.
The juice flowed. Drop by drop. Then like a tiny waterfall.
“I did it!” Selenga cheered.
“That juice came from your hands,” Dad said. "It's your juice."
Tasting
Selenga picked up the glass.
She brought it to her lips.
First sip: A little sour. Second sip: A little sweet. Third sip: Cool and refreshing.
She closed her eyes.
“Why are you drinking like that?” Dad asked.
"Because it's wonderful."
“Orange juice is here every morning. What makes this special?”
Selenga thought for a moment.
"Because I'm drinking it with you."
Dad went quiet. He picked up his own glass and gently touched it to hers.
“Good morning, Selenga.”
“Good morning, Dad.”
Every Morning After
From that day on, Selenga drank orange juice every morning.
Sometimes Dad squeezed it. Sometimes Mom did. Sometimes Selenga squeezed it herself.
But she always remembered that first morning.
Dad's hands. Orange juice. Sunshine.
And the gentle clink of their glasses.
Good morning.
Why Fresh Orange Juice Tastes Better
Fresh-squeezed orange juice contains much more vitamin C than store-bought juice. When juice is processed and packaged, it loses some of its natural flavor and nutrients. Making juice together also makes it taste even better because of the love and care you put into it.
Is Orange Juice Healthy for Kids?
Yes! Orange juice is full of vitamin C, which helps keep your immune system strong. Fresh-squeezed juice is the healthiest choice because it hasn't been processed. It's also a fun way to teach kids about healthy eating and where food comes from.
A Note for Parents
After reading this story with your child, try making fresh orange juice together tomorrow morning. Let them help squeeze the oranges and watch their face light up. That moment of connection is what this story is really about. The juice is just an excuse to spend quality time together.