Oh boy it's hot--I don't care if it's not June 21, summer has most certainly arrived! If you're one of the uber-rich and have an in-ground backyard pool, you and the kids are probably romping with glee, but for most of us "primary caregivers" with kids in tow, these dog days are often filed with too much TV and a whole lotta complaints. Here, from my super-green friend Jan Maltby, is a bit of respite from the powerful sol, and a fun project for the kids: Jan's recipe for homemade ice cream. And in case you're worried that it's junky, never fear: Since you control the ingredients, it's all natural and organic to boot.

I'll bring you more of Jan's wisdom in the near future--she makes fresh bread for her family every day, and then goes off to work at either famed Rockefeller, NY sustainable farm Stone Barns or her other passion, Slow Food USA.

Now before you get really excited, I need to warn you that you'll need an ice cream maker, but I have done the due diligence and found some good ones for you. Or, if you have the time, scout E-bay or Amazon for a used version, and you may get an even better bargain.

Just watch the portion sizes, remember you won't be burning those extra calories trying to catch up with the ice cream truck...

Linens n Things has the Deni's Automatic Ice Cream Maker with Candy Crusher for about $50 (skip the crushed candy please!).

The indestructible Cuisinart has a premium looking model, the Automatic Frozen Yogurt-Ice Cream & Sorbet Maker, also for about $50.

INGREDIENTS