Weekend Challange

So this weekend challenge is all about farmer's markets. If you have not made it to your local farmer's market this is the week to do it. If you have just go again anyway=) When you go take the time to talk to the people you meet. Ask them about how they grow things and what their practices are. Many local farmers use organic methods but just haven't gone through the process of being labeled organic(it can be pricey.)

Farmer's markets are a great source of real food. It is beneficial in many ways to shop at a farmer's market. It will cost a little more sometimes but it is well worth it when you realize the benefits and other times it's cheaper depending on what you get.

1. Nutrition- The fresher the food the more nutrients and vitamins that are still intact. So if the food is from down the street as apposed to say Mexico you are getting much more out of the food you are eating. Who doesn't want that?
2. Social economics- You are helping local farmer's to continue their business. This is good for everyone involved. I don't know about you but I rather be helping keep farmer Joe who practices good sustainable farming than giant corporation A who does nothing but ruin the food and the environment!
3.Environment- It takes a lot to prepare, pack, and transport that food hundreds of miles. If it's coming from the farmer down the street this is greatly reduced.
4. Taste- It taste a whole lot better when it's this fresh and grown well!
5. Sense of connection- The whole family can get a sense of conection with where their food is coming from when you can look the farmer in the eye and shake his hand. This is a great way to teach your children about where food comes from and the importance of filling our bodies with good nutritional food. You may learn something as well!
If you do not know where a farmer's market is in your area check out local harvest it is a great resource for finding local farms and farmer's markets. They also have listings for CSA's (community supported agriculture) which is where you buy a share and you get a box of various produce and other things every week.
There are many benifits to shopping at the farmer's market so what are you waiting for?