National Farmer’s Market Week

I love cooking. And I love cooking healthy things for myself as well as my kids. I also love getting the freshest of the fresh foods from local farmer’s markets. Not only were the items literally in the ground the day before, depending on where you go, you can actually see the fields where they were grown. There are also places, such as Fulton Farms outside of Tipp City, OH, where you can pick your own fruits and veggies during certain you-pick times. Kids who are involved in the growing and/or gathering of their foods are generally more interested in eating them; “I made that!” Set your kids up for long, healthy lives by getting them interested in fresh veggies early.

In addition to health benefits, there are local benefits of supporting small and especially local businesses. They keep people working. Your neighbors. Working people pay taxes and have money to spend. More of your money stays in your community when you shop local than when you buy things at big chain stores. It’s a lovely circle that can only be completed when you buy local.

Farmer’s markets are getting national interest because they are seen as “young,” “trendy,” and “hip.” Everybody wants to be cool, and all the cool kids are shopping at the farmer’s market with their reusable bags. What does this mean for you? You probably have a farmer’s market within 10 miles of your home.

So there ya go, baby! It’s close, it’s healthy, it’s good for the community AND YOU. No excuses. Go now!