Independence

Tomorrow, America celebrates her Independence.  Now, I enjoy fireworks and barbecue as much as the next person, but I have to ask myself, how independent is our country?  Sure, we aren't ruled by another country, but we are so dependant on others to provide us with everything we consume.

Here are some startling facts for you about our food sources:

We import $133 billion in foods, feeds and beverages. This includes soybeans ($26 billion), meat/poultry ($18 billion) and corn ($10 billion).  Also included: fish ($17 billion), fruit ($12 billion) and vegetables ($11 billion) (Source: U.S. Census, Exhibit 7. Exports by End-Use Category, 2012).

Think about how far your food travels.  Seriously, your banana came from Chile, your Tuna from Japan, your sugar in your tea - Brazil.  Thousands upon thousands of miles of fuel by truck, train, boat and plane.  No wonder our food is so expensive!  

We are dependant upon these countries to provide our meals, but what could we save by eating locally?  Consider the cost of buying salmon from the grocery store - we're talking 20$ a pound here!  If I instead eat locally harvested fish, I'm saving up to 15$ a pound, easy!  Of course, when I lived in Oregon, all I had to do was open the freezer and pick out my salmon - the benefits of living on a river and having uncles who loved to fish!

Have you considered taking the 100 Mile Diet challenge?  You promise to buy only food that comes from within 100 miles from where you live.  You are supporting your local farmer, saving the emissions from the environment, and eating better, healthier and *GASP!* tastier food!  You might spend a little bit more in the beginning, but as you learn to store your food and support the local area, your wallet will be a bit heavier and your body a lot healthier!

Back to independence - I cannot urge you to gain your own by growing your own garden.  You have no excuse - even those in apartments can grow some vegetables in containers on a balcony or in a window.  Join a community garden, and buy in bulk at a local farmers market.  Make friends with someone who gardens - I promise you, they will be more than happy to provide you with all the squash, zucchini and tomatoes you can possibly eat fresh!  Even my preschoolers have their own garden in an upcycled wading pool.  Think long term - are you sick of apples in October?  Make apple sauce, apple pie in a jar, or dehydrate them for apple chips.  The point is, it IS worth it.

Have a fabulous weekend and Independance day!