Sometimes it's the little things that make things special

Sometimes it's the extra things we do that make a party special. My sister made this fruit basket from a melon and it was a big hit. It was poplar, not only because it was so pretty, but because it is also very healthy. I really appreciated that she took the time to make it because it was pretty and delicious.

This one was pretty elaborate, but you don't really have to go to so very much trouble to make a nice summer fruit salad/dessert. The melons can just be cut into chunks and the fruit doesn't have to be fancy to be good. Just putting it in a pretty glass bowl will dress it up. I know that just taking the lid off a nice fresh fruit salad in a plastic bowl can make my mouth water and when I see it presented well it is even better. Tastes the same but when it looks better, it just gives it something extra. That's why chefs put so much store in their presentation.

Great salad combos: assorted melons, melons with blueberries, assorted berries, peaches and berries, apples with grapes and walnuts or pecans, or just put in all your favorite fruits.

Some of the fruit may need to be soaked in 7-up to prevent it from turning brown, but this is a great way to do it. Just cut up your apples or peaches and cover with 7-up. (I have read that Sprite works just as well.) After an hour or more, your fruit will not turn brown.

I know some people like to put syrupy or mayonnaise or cream cheese-based concoctions on their fruit salads and maybe that is good for you, but to me, it takes away from the natural flavor of the fruit and just doesn't do anything for me. I like just my fruit salad "au natural." If your fruit has a tendency to turn, go ahead and sprinkle on some 7-UP, but why mess with something that God made perfectly well. It's just my opinion but I never add a dressing to my fruit. (I may add it to a Waldorf Salad but otherwise, no way.)

Cantaloupes and other melons can be hollowed out, too for small salads, or just use your imagination. You will be sure to please a crowd with your creations and who wouldn't appreciate a healthy dish that is also attractive?