Strawberry, Kiwi & Banana Smoothie

We are LOVING our new Vitamix and make some sort of smoothie every day. We each have our favorite way of making them too. Don and I prefer ours made with fresh fruit, spinach, water and some flaxseed meal. Rachael will try just about any combination I make and requested kale once, but I don't think she cared for it that much (like mother and daughter I guess!). And Gab prefers her smoothies made with fruit, milk and ice like this Strawberry, Kiwi and Banana Smoothie she made for herself recently. Smoothies are a great way to start your day, especially if you're like us and don't have time to sit down for a complete breakfast during the school week. She takes it with her to the bus stop and before the bus comes, she's had a healthy start to her day which helps her concentrate better at school. ~Enjoy!

Fruits and Vegetables in Season in July

The State of NJ website has a great section on what fruits and vegetables are in season including a search engine to locate your favorite Pick-Your-Own farms.  Here are some tips for visiting a Pick-Your-Own Farm: 


Do:
1. Remember that when visiting the farm, you are a visitor. Please respect the property as it is usually both the family's home and business
2. Read and obey all signs. Follow directions about where and what to pick
3. Supervise children at all times
4. Wear shoes, shirts and other proper clothing at all times
5. Leave all pets at home
6. Be sure to place all litter in the proper trash receptacles
7. Keep head, arms, hands and legs inside when riding in farm wagons and remain seated until the wagon stops. 
8. Enjoy yourself and have fun!


Do Not:
1. Enter buildings that are not open to the public
2. Throw or damage produce
3. Climb on or touch farm tools and equipment. 
4. Climb trees or step on fruits and vegetables in the field
5. Frighten or hurt farm animals

Here is a list of the fruits and vegetables that are ready for the picking in July. So grab the family this weekend and support your local growers!

Blackberries	July 15 - July 30
Blueberries	July 5 - Aug. 10
Peaches, Nectarines	July 20 - Sept. 1
Plums	July 15 - Aug. 15
Red Raspberries	July 5 - July 21

Beets	July 1 - Oct. 31
Broccoli	July 1 - Oct. 31
Cabbage	June 10 - Oct. 31
Cucumbers	July 5 - Aug. 15
Eggplant	July 20 - Sept. 30
Onions	June 25 - July 31
Peppers	July 15 - Oct. 31
Potatoes	July 20 - Sept. 30
Snap Beans	June 20 - July 20
Squash	June 25 - Sept. 1
Sweet Corn	July 5 - Aug. 31
Tomatoes	July 10 - Sept. 15