July 2024 Newsletter
Hello Beautiful Mama,
Welcome to the vibrant month of July! Summer is in full swing, bringing with it the joys of sunny days, warm nights, and a wealth of seasonal festivities. As mamas, experiencing pregnancy and motherhood during these summer months can be both a delight and a challenge. It’s a time to savor the abundance of fresh, seasonal foods, attend local festivals, and make lasting memories with your little ones. The warmth of the season encourages us to spend more time outdoors, basking in the sunlight, and enjoying the simple pleasures of nature.
However, it’s also essential to be mindful of the heat and take necessary precautions to keep both you and your baby safe. Staying hydrated is paramount; make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Wearing light, breathable clothing and taking breaks in the shade or air conditioned spaces can help you stay cool and comfortable. Embrace the cooling effects of fresh seasonal produce like watermelon, cucumbers, and leafy greens, which can provide hydration and essential nutrients.
Summer is also a time of vibrant community gatherings and festivals, offering a chance to connect with neighbors and enjoy local culture. Whether you’re visiting a farmer’s market, attending a local fair, or simply having a picnic in the park, these events are wonderful opportunities to enjoy the season’s bounty and create cherished memories with your babies.
Enjoy all the wholesome produce that summer has to offer, savor the moments with your family, and take care of yourselves in the heat. Here’s to a safe, healthy, and joyous July!!
With love and sunshine,
The FarmerHer to Mama Team
Anne, Anna, Porchea, Virginia, Becca, Allyssa, & Veronica
July Goodies
Eggs from Six Day Farm (Dyer, IN) and Eden Eggs (Crown Point, IN)
Oats and Cornmeal from Janie’s Mill (Ashkum, IL)
Spring Mix from Sunchoke Farms (South Bend, IN) & Rainfield Farm (New Carlisle, IN)
Cherry Tomatoes from Rainfield Farm (New Carlisle, IN)
Green Tomatoes from Perkins’ Good Earth Farm (Demotte, IN)
Squash from Rainfield Farm (New Carlisle, IN) & Hulitt Homestead (Portage, IN)
Blueberries and Cherries from Mick Klug Farms (St. Joseph, MI)
Sweet Corn from Kankakee Valley Homestead (Walkerton, IN)
Cucumbers from Tuholski Produce (La Porte, IN)
Ground Pork from Tanglewood Acres (Mill Creek, IN)
Chicken Breast from Miller Poultry (Orland, IN)
Foodie Tips
Oats from Janie’s Mill:
Tip: Transform your oats into a delicious breakfast by making overnight oats. Combine oats, milk, a sweetener like honey or maple syrup, and your favorite fruits such as blueberries or cherries. Refrigerate overnight and enjoy a quick, nutritious breakfast.
Cherry Tomatoes from Rainfield Farm:
Tip: Enhance the flavor of cherry tomatoes by roasting them. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in a 400°F oven for about 20 minutes. Use roasted cherry tomatoes as a topping for salads, pasta, or bruschetta.
Cucumbers from Tuholski Produce:
Tip: Keep cucumbers fresh and crisp by storing them in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel. Use them in refreshing salads, as a crunchy snack, or to make homemade pickles. Simply slice, add to a mixture of vinegar, water, sugar, and spices, and let sit in the fridge for a few days.
From Our FarmHers: Wisdom from the Fields
From Shiloh Divine Farms/Tuholski Produce/Grounded Earth FarmHers and Mamas
1.Embrace Seasonal Eating: One of the best ways to ensure you’re getting the most nutrients is by eating what is in season. Seasonal produce is fresher, more flavorful, and packed with vitamins and minerals. Plus, it’s often more affordable and supports local farmers. This summer, make the most of fresh berries, leafy greens and other seasonal vegetables.
2. Stay Hydrated with Fresh Produce: Hydration is crucial, especially in the summer heat. Incorporate water-rich foods like cucumbers, tomatoes, and leafy greens into your diet. They help keep you hydrated and provide essential nutrients. A refreshing salad or a smoothie packed with these ingredients can be both hydrating and nutritious.
3. Get Creative in the Kitchen: Don’t be afraid to experiment with new recipes and flavors. Use the fresh produce from your FarmHer to Mama totes to try new dishes. Cooking can be a fun activity to do with your family, and is great way to teach them about healthy eating. Try making a colorful vegetable stirfry, or a berry packed smoothie bowl.
4.Plan your Meals: Meal planning can save you time and ensure you and your family eat healthy, balanced meals. Spend a little time each week planning your meals around the fresh produce you have. This not only reduces food waste, but also helps you make the most of your groceries. Include a variety of colors and types of produce to get a range of nutrients.
5. Connect with your Food: Knowing where your food comes from and how it is grown can make a big difference. Visit local farms, attend farmers markets, and talk to farmers who grow your food. This connection can deepen your appreciation for the food on your plate and inspire healthier eating habits.
6. Share the Experience: Food has a unique way of bringing people together. Share your cooking experiences and recipes with friends and family. Invite them over for a meal or start a recipe exchange. Sharing food and meals builds community and creates lasting memories.
7. Take Care of Yourself: Remember that taking care of your own health is just as important as caring for your family. Nourish your body with wholesome foods, stay hydrated and make time for rest and relaxation. A healthy mom is the cornerstone of a healthy family.
This advice reminds us of the importance of connecting with our food, embracing seasonal eating, and finding joy in nourishing ourselves and our families. Let’s take this wisdom to heart and make this summer a season of health, happiness and delicious meals!
Balancing motherhood can be challenging, but don’t forget to find joy in the simple things! You are doing an incredible job, and your love and dedication are the greatest gifts you can give your children. Keep shining, stay strong, and know that we are here to support you every step of the way!
A Look Ahead
August- summer squash, tomatoes, green beans, berries, peaches, cucumbers, & watermelon!
Join our FarmHer to Mama Facebook Group for support, recipes, tips, & community.
Questions or feedback about the program? We’d love to hear from you! Reach out to Anne (info@nwifoodcouncil.org, 219-313-8828) or Porchea (porchea@nwifoodcouncil.org, 219-316-4556).
