Each June we pick strawberries at a local commercial field. It is such a pleasant time of year, with mostly cool spring weather mixed with sunny days. We went out for our second picking yesterday and were joined by three grandkids.
There is nothing like fresh, deliciously ripe strawberries on cereal or shortcake. And we also make freezer jam with it, and freeze some for putting on pancakes throughout the year.
Another common memory for me at this time of year, and especially associated with strawberry picking, is hayfever. I’m usually slammed with itchy eyes and throat, and sneezing, particularly after being outside and active. But not this year. My rush immunotherapy allergy shots, which I started a mere two month ago, have been wildly successful. I’ve taken no allergy medication and have almost zero symptoms. I’m already at maintenance dosage, needing a shot only every two to four weeks now. I’m a happy camper.
Jealous! We are enjoying the worldwide strawberry harvest second-hand here. We found Dutch strawberries (they are like Oregon strawberries – small and intense rather than big and beautiful but bland) at a grocery store last week for 20dhs/500g. That works out to be about $5/lb. To us, it was a steal. I hope there are backyard blueberries ready for us in July!