Kathi Casey, Author, Baby Boomer Health and Wellness Coach, Corporate Wellness Trainer - Kathi's Blog

Summer Fruit Deserts and Childhood Memories

My summer memories from childhood usually involve strawberry shortcake. I grew up in the Berkshires of Massachusetts – a rural area where strawberry festivals happened every July at all of the churches around. Yummy home-made shortcakes piled high with sugary strawberries and whipped cream… My daughter inherited my love for this summer concoction, and I still make my own shortcakes – none of that store bought angel food cake for us! My son has craved strawberry rhubarb pie just about since birth. I grew rhubarb in the back yard and made pie after pie all summer while he devoured them! He still asks for this summer pie when we get together for picnics – and even at Thanksgiving, which means that I freeze the rhubarb!

Since fruits are so plentiful in July and August, try bringing back your childhood fruit favorites like peach pie or blueberry buckle. Just remember to use organic strawberries and wash those blueberries well and try using a little less sugar than the recipe calls for. I’ve been using about 1/3 less for years and no one ever notices. Another healthy tip is switching to low fat dairy in your dishes – especially the fruit desserts. The fruit is already sweet and there are several great tasting low fat ice creams available – give them a whirl and find one you like!  

Best of Health,

Kathi