Embarking on a Mission of Health

Call me crazy, idealistic, extreme, whatever, but I am thinking of embarking on a year long food mission for my health and the health of the planet. I recently read Gary Paul Nahban's book, Coming Home to Eat, and was inspired. Not only did I learn a ton about an area of the country that I hardly think of, but I was deeply and profoundly impressed by his wisdom, fortitude and continued empowerment when it came to eating locally within his own foodshed.

It got me thinking, being in the New England area allows me an abundance of seasonal food all year round. I have alot of time on my hands as a work at home mom and I love a good challenge. Why not try my own version of what Gary did in his desert town of Sonora Valley and explore my local terrain, meet other local foodists and native eaters and learn a thing or two about the history of this area and our food supply.

I think if I tried to eat 3 out of 4 meals including mostly locally grown and produced faire and 2 out of 4 meals raw, that would be a substantial challenge that I would love to explore. In addition, reducing my carbon footprint by walking more and finding out what each corner in my city has to offer would be a good way to get out of the house with the baby for a little exercise and fun.

So far, I haven't found any books on New England based local eating movements but I know there are plenty of locavores here. I may start a new blog about this if it is something I don't get burnt out on too quickly. A year is a long time and I am still breastfeeding, so I don't want to do anything stupid. I just think that this would be something unique and life affirming and a good way to get to know myself even better as well as to instill in my child something that I care deeply about.