Find the Food that is Fresh, Local and In Season, Here's How

This beautiful bounty was from my CSA last summer, yum!

July 1st is a wonderful time for farmers across most of the country.  They are busy producing the amazing food most of us dream about in winter.  Seriously,  is it better buying a tomato from a farm or farmers market in summer, or from the food store in the winter?  If you did not hesitate answering that question with the first choice, read on.In most areas of the country you can execute a google search for local farms, farmers markets or CSA's in an area close to you.  This is the best time of year to connect with what is local and seasonal.  There are so many good reasons to do that starting with the food just tastes great!  So why not give it a shot?
A few more reasons include the following:  In spite of all the talk about the global economy, it still makes sense to support your local economy whenever possible, buying local means, supporting your friends and neighbors, minimal shipping which in turn means your carbon foot print is a little smaller. (every little bit helps, right?)  
Finally if you actually join a CSA or shop at a farm stand, it is your direct connection with the person who is growing your food.  This is something most of us rarely think about. It is truly amazing to think about the hard work that goes into that corn on the cob that you will be looking forward to this weekend. Do you really know what you are eating?  Well that is a question for another day.  For now, shop local and see what is in season in you neck of the woods! Have a wonderful July 4th holiday weekend.