Summer in Texas

How are you staying cool this summer? I think I missed spring this year. It seems that the temperatures were cool then all of a sudden we are experiencing temperatures greater than 100 degrees! We had the misfortune of one of our trees splitting and losing a large branch. We spent 2 weekends out in this heat cutting wood. We won’t have to buy firewood for at least 2 years. I didn’t realize that a tree had so much wood. We experienced working out in this heat first-hand. Many of us have lived in Texas long enough to know how to take care of ourselves in this heat. Just a few reminders if you must be outdoors in these temperatures:

  • Drink lots of water (this is the most important thing to remember)
  • Take breaks often
  • If possible, work in the shade
  • Wear light-colored clothing
  • Plan outdoor activities for in the morning or late evening, not during the heat of the day
  • Avoid sitting in a hot car and do not leave children or pets in a parked car

It is also recommended to eat smaller, cooler meals during the hottest times of the day. Avoid really hot dishes at lunchtime and in the early afternoons. This would be the perfect time to enjoy chilled fruits, vegetables and snacks. Here are some cool ideas:

Frozen Yogurt Pops

Fill an ice cube tray with any flavor yogurt. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze. When partially frozen, place a popsicle stick in the middle. Remove from ice cube tray when completely frozen. You can also try adding some cut up fruit such as strawberries, blueberries or bananas. You can also sandwich yogurt between Graham Crackers and freeze for a cool sandwich!

Gummies in Water

Using a clear, plastic bowl, make your favorite Jell-O gelatin flavor following the package instructions for adding fruit. Add your favorite gummies; bears, sharks, worms. Chill until set. You can also use small clear plastic cups for individual servings.

Fruit Smoothies

1 cup yogurt
½ cup fruit juice
Fruit of your choice
Ice
Granola

Mix together all the ingredients except the granola. Top with the granola if desired. You can even add peanut butter. The choices are only limited by your imagination!

Pantry Trail Mix

This is a great time to clean out the pantry of all of those left-over snacks and cereals that aren’t really enough for a serving and no one wants to finish. Try mixing pretzels, nuts, Cheerios, raisins, M&M’s, goldfish, cheese crackers, chocolate chips. Mix them up and place in snack bags for individual servings.

Let us know how you are staying cool. Please feel free to post responses on our Facebook page.