Category Archives: pumpkin patch

Pumpkin Milk or Latte: Add a Healthy Treat to Your Morning Routine

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photo(9)Fall is one of my favorite seasons for many reasons including the changing colors, the festive flavors and the pumpkin patches.  I admittedly am one of those people who looks forward to Starbucks release of the pumpkin latte.  I practically jump for joy when I see the plethora of pumpkin flavored offerings at Trader Joe’s.  You could call me a pumpkin-holic.

I’m proud to say that I am passing on my love of pumpkins to my boys.  They too enjoy visiting pumpkin patches as well as all things pumpkin. We’ve made pumpkin flavored soup, scones, pancakes and muffins.  My latest creation however is my favorite yet – pumpkin milk.  Both kid and adult friendly, pumpkin milk can be enjoyed on its own or even added to coffee.  Say hello to a homemade pumpkin latte, which is much more budget friendly than the nearly $5 and 400 calorie Starbucks latte that despite the name doesn’t include any “pumpkin.” (Sad News for Pumpkin Spice Latte Fans)

Would you know that pumpkins boast many health benefits as according to WebMd they’re loaded with vitamin A (beta carotene), low in calories as well as fiber.  Apparently, “Known for its immune-boosting powers, beta-carotene is essential for eye health and has also been linked to preventing coronary heart disease.” (Superfood-Pumpkin, Caitlin Covington) Pumpkin is loaded with vitamin k as well which is said to be able to reduce the risks of some types of cancer.

So, this mama is happy to add the pumpkin milk warmed for my boys in the morning.  They start off the day downing full fat milk enhanced with the benefits of pumpkin.  Want to try it?

Well, here’s myphoto(7) recipe:

  • 1.5 cups of whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons of canned pumpkin
  • 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice (or combination of such spices – cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cardamon)
  • 1 teaspoon of brown sugar (or other sweetener)

gather your ingredients.  Set all ingredients in a saucepan on the stovetop.  Turn heat to low and whisk until at desired temperature. photo(8)

Enjoy plain or add to coffee.

For other fun fall ideas, check out my posts about pumpkin patches, fall art, setting the table and cheap and easy Halloween decorations.  And check back for some crafty ideas as the boys and I are brewing up some Halloween fun

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Pumpkin Patch Roundup

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Along with fall, comes pumpkin lattes, jack o lanterns and of course Halloween!  Halloween is such a fun holiday to prepare for with kiddos.  Of course there is one tradition that is a treat to kids and adults alike — finding that perfect pumpkin.  Sonoma County has many amazing pumpkin patches to visit.  From neighborhood patches to full blown farms, there is something out there for everyone.  Here are a few suggestions:

Adobe Pumpkin Farm, Old Adobe Road, Petaluma.  Driving into Petaluma from Sonoma, you’ll likely pass by Adobe Pumpkin Farm.  With rusty old tractors decorating the pumpkin patch, kids can have fun running from tractor to tractor.  After kids find the perfect pumpkin, then you can do other things like harvest veggies, taste some local goodies, or shop for holiday (even Christmas) goods.  If you plan your visit on a weekend, then you will benefit from additional kid friendly activities such as pony rides, face painting and jumpy houses.  http://www.adobepumpkinfarm.com/

Peter Pumpkin Patch, Petaluma, 4235 Spring Hill Rd., Petaluma.  This pumpkin patch is out by Spring Hill Cheese Co. (also known as Petaluma Creamery.)  Let kids explore the patch, go for a hay ride, dig potatoes, milk cows, and climb pyramids made from haybails.  Then, treat them to some organic ice cream while you try some of Spring Hill’s organic cheese.  Definitely a trip worth making! http://www.springhillcheese.com/holiday.html

Petaluma Pumpkin Patch – Right off of the 101 is another pumpkin patch – the Petaluma Pumpkin Patch.  This patch has a fun corn maze (and animals too!).  So, hurry up and pick your pumpkin, then get lost in the maze.  http://www.petalumapumpkinpatch.com/

Petersons Pumpkin Patch, 636 Gossage Avenue, Petaluma – Pumpkins, animals and bees are on the agenda for those visiting Peterson’s Pumpkin Patch.  This farm is stacked with things for kids to do.  From a kid friendly exhibit on bees to feeding cows and watching chickens, this farm has lots to offer.  http://www.petersonsfarm.com/index.html

Stanly Lane is another local gem.  It has lots to offer in addition to pumpkins, including baby pigs!

Tolay Fall Festival has loads of fun on the menu.  Tractor rides, creatures barn, petting zoo, lawn games and crafts are a few of the things to do.  This festival has only select hours, so make sure to check the calendar before you go – available at http://www.sonoma-county.org/parks/pk_tolay_fallfestival.htm