Eating Locally

Eating locally is going to be a challenge for me. At the moment, I am focusing on finding out as much as I can about what is in season in Arizona in August (anything????) and where I can find it. This morning I spent some time looking for local produce markets that are open during the summer. Unfortunately, August being the worst time of year for being outdoors here, there are a number of farmer’s markets that are closed.

Jen has asked that we answer the following questions for the challenge:

1. What’s your definition of local for this challenge?

My definition of local for this challenge will be the state of Arizona. I plan to focus on organic or naturally grown food that is grown in Arizona. We are lucky to have three different climatic zones here, so I should be able to find local food all year ’round. I suspect however, that I will have to supplement my local food with non-local food, but I plan to buy organic as much as possible

2. What exemptions will you claim?

Cheese and meat to begin with. I should be able to find organic, so I will focus on eating meat that is organic.

Seasonings will be an exception as well, though, I will attempt to focus on cooking with local herbs as much as possible. I may have to make more exceptions as I go, just based on what I learn.

3. What is your personal goal for the month?

I can’t boil it down to just one goal. I have a few. I plan to:

I see this challenge as a beginning to a new, healthier way of living. I try to purchase from local vendors as much as possible in other aspects of my life, so it only makes sense to make the extension to food. I already support several local restaurants, and I hope to support more, different food producers.