Naturally Flavored Water Recipes - a Great Alternative to Juice or Soda

I recently left a person speechless when I told him that my family only drank water. Only water. As a family of 5, we only use about 1/2 gallon of milk a week - and that is only for our milk consuming toddler. The only time we drink anything other than water is for special occasions. We are trying to focus on healthy eating habits for our children while they are young. But, sometimes it is really hard to just drink water. And, with my oldest starting school and playing at friend's houses, she is starting to notice that water isn't the only thing that people usually drink.

So, in trying to shake up our boring water, I made some delicious naturally flavored water. It was so easy and my kids loved it. We will be doing it again soon!

To make your own naturally flavored water you will need:
Fruit - any variety other than bananas. Try to buy in season and use the fruit when it is ripe to maximize sweetness and flavor. You can substitute frozen fruit for fresh if the fruit you want is out of season.
Herbs - while you don't have to use herbs, they do add some fun variety to the fruit. We really love blueberries mixed with basil.
Jar - to mix the fruit.
Wooden spoon - to slightly bruise the fruit and herbs.
Water

First, place your fruit and herbs in the bottom of your jar. Use the wooden spoon to slightly bruise the fruit and herbs. Don't mash the fruit up too much, just enough so that it starts to barely loose it's juice. Next, add the water and ice and then you are ready to serve.

Some great combinations are - Citrus blend, blackberry with sage, blueberry with basil, pineapple with mint, watermelon with rosemary, and raspberry with lime.