Recently, I have been helping a number of family and friends with their plans to slim down for swimsuit season.  In my research and analysis of their diets, I took a look at my own eating habits and determined that my current diet had not been as regimented as it once was.  I have been seriously slacking.  Skipping breakfast, not eating enough vegetables, and a host of stomach issues signaled that I have gotten out of balance.  In an effort to regain my balance, keep up my energy, and help my tennis game improve, I wrote myself a new eating plan and a mainstay has been a morning smoothie.  This habit began about 2 weeks ago and has now turned into an all out obsession.  My freezer is packed full of tropical mixed frozen fruit blends, peaches, strawberries, and pineapple. and I am having trouble finding room for anything else. I also journeyed to the store to stock up on a new Kitchen Aid stick blender, flax meal, fresh ginger, cayenne pepper, plenty of juices, and buttermilk (yes, buttermilk it has just as many active cultures as yogurt and is easier to measure. Try it.).  I feel like a mad scientist in the mornings adding different herbs and spices, like turmeric and cayenne pepper, to boost the antioxidant qualities of my drink.  I am writing some of my favorites down and hope to tweak some in the Test Kitchens and come up with a great smoothie story; but in the mean time try this great Orange-Berry Swirl to start your day.