Day 1

Today was the day when an interesting idea turned into a difficult, yet fun and I believe, possible, reality.  I went to the farmers market to get my food for the week.  I left with swiss chard, romaine lettuce, spinach, asparagus, onions, radishes, and boc choy.  I spent only 30 dollars and I believe I purchased enough food to feed me for a week.  (I already had a dozen local eggs from a friends family farm that should help me out as well.)

I found it very enjoyable to buy my food directly from the people who planted it, cared for it, and harvested it.  I am amazed that up until today, all of the food I consume on a daily basis comes from an unknown source.  It just appears at a grocery store or restaurant, ready for my consumption.  It is a blessing to be able to know where my food comes from and it feels great to be able to support local farmers who are growing food in sustainable ways.

For lunch today I ate a salad of spinach, romaine lettuce and swiss chard.  It was....edible.

For supper I sauteed asparagus, onions, radishes and boc choy.  It was delicious!  

I plan on eating pretty much these two dishes all week, unless somebody has some good ideas for me!  I am open to any and all suggestions.  I am also looking for other local food ideas beyond eggs, and fresh produce.

I also decided to try and plant some of my own food.  As an apartment dweller my gardening options are limited, however, I do have a deck.  So I got my hands on seven large flower pots and planted two kinds of tomatoes, three varieties of peppers, zucchini, and spinach.  Hopefully these vegetables are fool proof because I have nothing that resembles a green thumb.

Barbara Kingsolver states that the two most difficult requirements to eating a local diet are having patience and restraint.   Two things that don't often come naturally to those of us who have spent our entire lives emerged in a culture known for over-consumption and immediate gratification.

Lord, help me learn patience and restraint.