In Defense of Food

This morning I started reading In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan. (Only on page 10 and I already adore it...) He wrote the book to answer what to eat, after writing An Omnivore's Dilemma which examined the sources and methods of food production of various sources.

He says: Eat real food. Not too much. Mostly plants.

I really like that. That pretty sums it up. However its not always that easy. First off its not always easy to get your hands on what I consider real food. Everyone has their own definition of what what "real food" is. To me "real" food should be raised by yourself, or nearby, and should be raised sustainably and naturally. This means eating in season, and planning for the winter. Such old fashion notions...

This isn't always "practical" in our busy lives, and busy society. This is one of my plans for our future is to grow at least the majority of my own fruits and vegetables. I have found over the last couple of years that it is easier said than done. There is so much to learn about caring for plants. It cannot be learned over night. Slowly I have learned more and more. Learning which plants do well in which season, soil needs, water needs, which plants can handle shade, which need complete sun. Which plants don't grow well in Oregon because of the mild summer temperatures, and how to grow them anyways. Which plants can grow well year round in the mild winters....

Its wonderfully fascinating to discover. Trial and error, building on what you learn each year, slowly gaining more and more successes. I love it! I am planning to have a large three season garden at the raised beds at my workplace this year(how great is that ? I get paid to garden?) and a perennial flower garden.

I can't wait!