Strawberry Smoothie with NO Yogurt

I've been meaning to ask you, why is it so hot outside? I'm not okay with it. I'm a little afraid of what the summer holds if the spring is this intense. So in light of us moving (and because it's hotter than dickens outside), I threw together a fun little smoothie. Not a serious smoothie. It's not the kind you'd take home to your mother. It's the kind that you take on one or two dates, then realize that long-term, you want to find a serious smoothie.

I repeat: this is not a serious smoothie.

I understand that I'm sending conflicting messages about this. Let me clarify: this is a dang good smoothie. But it's so simple, it's hard to take it seriously. Real smoothies have health-beneficial powders, 7 different types of fruit, trendy names like "Cabana Banana" and cost $9 at Smoothie King. This estimated $2 smoothie (for 2 large servings) can't possibly be the real thing.

Who's to say?

I'll leave it at this: my husband, who is the pickiest eater alive, has completely finished his. In under 6 minutes. Because it's a good stinkin' smoothie. He compared it to a strawberry eclaire. Come to think of it, this would be perfect for an after-school snack that's not packed full of calories (wouldn't want to spoil any appetites). It would also be great for an outdoor summer get-together. But I'm not going to tell you how to live your life. I just offer great suggestions like this one.

Ingredients:

• 5 strawberries (tops removed)
• 10 ice cubes
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons
• Splenda or sweetener (if you're an artificial sweeteners, go for the real stuff. It won't kill you)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla

Directions: Blend all ingredients together. Serve with a strawberry as garnish.