I am a huge fan of all manner of eating (and drinking) local.
Fun restaurants (hello, Blue Bird Bistro and that amazing bakery next door, Fervere), coffee (my favs are Black Dog and Roasterie), great wine (you must go to Somerset Ridge Winery), and, of course, farmer’s markets (all of them)!
I literally want to just stop and talk to the owners and farmers and find out their story and their goals. I also want to take a part in investing in their work by buying some of their crops and creations. The reality is that I don’t really have time to cook too much and that may just be an excuse like the one I “formerly” used about working out… (Kind of sounds familiar) – I mean, what do you do with an acorn squash? (Actually I forced myself to learn about this. And get this… you only have to bake it like a sweet potato! WHEW, hard work!).
Truly, the reasons why we should “eat local” are many. Check out these reasons why:
- By supporting local farmers we are not only eating the healthiest food available to us, but we are creating local jobs. We are also…
- Boosting the economy! Local money stays local and that helps us all.
- Helping our planet prosper! Less time for food to travel means not only FRESH food, but it means, less fuel and a host of other savings from the distribution process.
- It’s good for the “SOIL” and the SOUL! Local food encourages local agriculture and enables us to develop sustainable food resources. Plus, it just makes you HAPPY!
- Builds more connected COMMUNITIES. Who doesn’t love the thought of that?
If you are in KC, there is a terrific resource, which is nothing short of awesome! Here you can find an amazing list of all things local in our area and also restaurants and establishments that serve/sell local products! I JUST LOVE THAT! I know there are similar resources in most communities and it’s worth taking the time to find out what they are!
Memorial Day weekend is coming up and I hope you’ll get out and enjoy some good, locally sourced food and drink! A LIFE OF EXCELLENCE surely includes all manner of local food, coffee and wine! 🙂
(Photo credit: We Heart It)