October 14, 2014

Autumn is such a fun season.  What is not to love?  I missed sweater weather, the colorful trees, warm drinks, and I love the start of a new cycle.  I've decided to embrace the seasonal activities and go on a few adventures.  This weekend, I went to the Cranberry Harvest Festival with some friends in Wareham, MA.  

Highlights--we learned tons!  For example, did you know that cranberries provide a solid source of daily fiber, vitamin C, oxalates (which help prevent kidney stones), are said to bolster the cardiovascular system, fight cancer, and protect your teeth!?  This berry has so much to offer, and has a richhistory.  The cranberry is native to North America, and has been used in history for everything from cakes (made by Native Americans), dyes, and to prevent scurvy (due to powerful antioxidants).  Also, legend has it that cranberries were served at the first Thanksgiving at Plymouth Rock.

Cranberries are grown on bogs, or in a dry setting.  The use for the berry depends on where it was grown--bog cranberries are used for "wet" foods like jams and juice, while dry cranberries are used for non-wet foods like dried cranberries.

It was a beautiful day.  We walked, chatted, learned, and enjoyed the stunning New England autumn :) Have a beautiful day, everyone!