Eat Local

Times have changed. 100 years, 75 years, hmmmm - maybe 50 years ago was there any other way for most Americans but to eat what they or their community grew? Now it's a movement. Oh, don't get me wrong I love the idea and am in the process of creating a space for my family and local community, Southworth, to do the same.
When we moved out here our daughters teased us every time we said the word FARM! The only thing growing here was an old small fruit orchard.
Tony and I attended several WSU extension courses on sustainable farming and learned quickly that if the land you live on isn't making you any $ you need a plan. So we created one.
We are only getting older so we took into consideration the amount of work and return for it. Heirloom tomatoes are delicious but a lot of work for $4.00 a lb. So the first crop we settled on was blueberries. Upfront labor for preparing the soil, measuring rows, double digging, was hard and took time but our first crop is in! 240 plants. With some TLC, pruning and 3 dogs to help keep deers at bay we are on our way. It is very exciting. In a few years we'll have a small crop to sell.
Contributing to a movement, to our health, and to our community. I like the sound of that.
Last year I was given a book that I loved and learned so much from reading. Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver. She shares about her families journey committing to eating local for 1 year. Even if you don't have a space to grow your own food anyone who eats should read it to learn about what you are eating. You will be shocked. It was also fun to read about the author as a wife and mother. A very funny lady.
Kitsap Co. is trying to better it's community by creating a food coop. Plans are under way but as with anything it may be a couple years. In the mean time here is a list and map of farms where you can begin supporting your health and local farmers from the ground up.
F.R.