So This Is Christmas

Merry Christmas is such an infectious feeling I like to feel that way all year around.

So if you are visiting just before Christmas, just after Christmas or even here on Christmas day I am sure you will find something of interest for you and in the spirit of Christmas.

It may be said that Christmas is no longer a celebration but this must be spoken by people that have never had trouble closing their eyes on Christmas Eve in an expectation of what maybe left for them on the carpet under the tree.

I continue to look forward to the surprise on my Grandchild's faces to this day at Christmas events.

Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas - Merry Christmas

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Produce Shopping Tips: Get the Best Fruits & Vegetables in Winter

By Anita Leverington

Its easy for to incorporate yummy fruits and vegetables into daily meals in the spring and summer when everything is blooming and thriving. The fall season welcomes a delicious second crop of some of those foods again in addition to a few new ones.

Then winter comes along, and where did all the harvest disappear to? The plants and trees become lifeless and lose their foliage, as the brisk and chilly atmosphere sets in. The question is, are there any fruits or vegetables available at this time of year, and once we find them, what's the best way to prepare them?

Tangerines, clementines, tangerines, oranges, grapes, pomegranate, bananas, pears, kiwi, and passion fruit are still available if you know where to look, and the same can be said for wintertime vegetables, like snow peas, celery, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, potatoes and turnips.

Finding fresh fruits and vegetables in the winter can take some searching. Your local grocery store may have an abundant supply, but only of some of these foods. You can check out in-door farmers markets or specialty food/whole food stores. Depending on your region, you may be able to grow your own winter garden (indoors or outdoors) and harvest some of these delicious foods yourself. Theres lots of information on growing your own indoor/outdoor winter garden found on the Internet or in gardening books at the public library or bookstore.

Cooking Ideas: The first thing that always comes to mind is to make some delicious hearty warm veg soup. Begin preparing early on, and let the soup simmer away undisturbed, producing that unmistakable aroma. How about making guacamole with avocado, or cabbage leaves stuffed with hot filling. Sweet potatoes with pecan nuts and natural brown sugar can give a tasty treat.

Here's some ideas for the preparation of winter fruits: Salad is a nice compliment with any meal. Add a little extra zing, by throwing in some orange segments or grapes with lettuce. Or maybe have yourself a winter fruit salad, removing any vegetables. For an exciting taste, add a little orange zest to freshly prepared cranberry sauce, and serve with poultry. Passion fruit mixes well with kiwi, mix and serve with plain vanilla ice cream for a dreamy taste, or serve pears gently warmed with a dash of cinnamon.

There are fresh produce in the winter months, no matter where you live. Search the stores and try out your green thumb to see what kinds of delicious recipes you can come up with to help yourself and family eat healthy during the cold months.

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