simplifying

I have been a busy bee this semester.  I like being busy, but it has been a little hectic and have lost my sense of direction and inner peace.

I have been finding inspiration on this website:

http://zenhabits.net/

tuesday, tuesday

My chem final is on Tuesday, and after that I will be free until January 10th.  This semester has been one of the most challenging that I can remember; finding the balance between work/jobs, life, and school was difficult, but exciting.  I learned a lot about myself and I feel tired and content.

I have one last push, and then I will be posting more.  I hope your holidays are going well, too!

awesome blog

about living simpler: http://zenhabits.net/minimalist-fun-the-100-things-challenge/

Happy Thanksgiving!!

bring back simplicity

Lately I have been noticing that it is hard to find the basics.

Simple, comfortable, beautiful ballet flats. Take the random things on the toe, they are not going to distract me from a not great flat.

Staple dark jeans. That have a great fit.

Simple is so much better than overdone.

The best way to demonstrate your skills, and set yourself apart from the rest, is to take something simple (an omelet if you're a chef, for example) and do it better than everyone else.

"finishing the race is half the battle"

-my dad, on the phone when I was walking into chem class with a cold yesterday morning.

When I was growing up my dad had an old sailboat and every Wednesday night in the summer I would go sailboat racing with him and his friends. (So fun!)

They were generally really bad at racing; we would always come in last.  But, one season my dad was there at every race, and so he actually won the trophy that season! Hah, I think all the other boats were probably pissed.

staying in the work

Something that I have been thinking about a lot is that stuff that is good for us can often feel uncomfortable or unpleasant. For example: sitting on the couch=comfortable, running=uncomfortable; watching tv= comfortable, studying chemistry=uncomfortable. 

But with dedication and and a whole lot of willpower, the uncomfortable begins to feel better, and sitting on the couch isn't as fulfilling as it might have been in the past. 

The more you do, the more you can do :)

creating balance, or when it rains it pours.

In my life, I always seem to have too much on my plate or not enough; creating balance does not come automatically and our culture tends to encourage extremes versus moderation. 

I am going to work on being more consistent in all areas of my life.  With balance, comes efficiency, and hopefully mindfulness can be created in the process.

I haven't been able to yoga in a while, which is probably half the problem, haha.

supporting local commerce

I work for a local, non-chain company; the owner started by teaching cooking classes out of her house! I feel like I am treated better as an employee of a small company, but today I realized that I need to be more diligent about supporting local commerce. This is something that has been on my mind for a while; my goal is to support at least one local company (store, restaurant, farmer's market, etc.) a week, and then see if I can build from there.
I do have a local shoe store recommendation; Fosee's, which has many hidden gems; you do have to search a bit, but I have found beautiful shoes that were marked down like 60-70%. They have great brands; similar to what you would find at nordstroms and anthropologie. And the saleswomen are so sweet. If you are in the Dallas area check it out; it's in the forest shopping center across the lot from whole foods.

"When someone comes along and says,

"not me, I'm going down a different path," we flinch. We're not organized to encourage and celebrate the unproven striver.[..]

If you think there's a chance you can make a dent, GO.

Now.

Hurry."

-seth godin

phew.

I had my second chem test last night; I have no idea how I did, but I am just glad to be done studying for a bit.  I am still kinda scared of chemistry so I probably study too much!  I did manage to watch a cute movie this weekend:

Coco Before Chanel

I love Audrey Tautou (who doesn't love amelie?) and this was a gorgeous movie; I highly recommend it.

also, d*s sneakpeaks were so good this week, I always find inspiration:

I grew up with a fireplace in my bedroom, this one is beautiful

 I want these cabinets

feelin good

the weather in Dallas has been perfect, it finally feels cool with highs in the mid 70's; I love this time of year!  also, Bored to Death is so funny this season, I highly recomend it:

bored to death season 2 *via HBO

I am currently in the midst of learning chem, I have a test in a week; I am trying to pace my studying so I don't end up cramming, hah never works though!  And, bodystep 81 launch is in less than 2 weeks!!

bodystep 81

living simpler

One of my goals that I am constantly working on is to live a simpler life; to live (and feel content) with less.  I moved two Saturdays ago to a great apartment and I really feel so much better in my new space; I have room to cook and a great creative/study space.  One of the worst, best, and hardest aspects for me about moving is that I have to confront all of my 'stuff.'  I don't really think of myself as having a lot of stuff, but I somehow do.  I don't currently know what the answer is...if you do let me know.

before...

easy fish tacos

I love good fish tacos; these took about 10 minutes to make

Simple Fish Tacos

1lb firm white fish (I like cod, but get what looks good)

olive oil

salt

pepper

small corn tortillas

topping ideas:

shredded lettuce, cabbage, or jicama

mango

cilantro

finely diced white onion

salsa

lime wedges

Saute fish in about 2 teaspoons of olive oil until firm, about 3 minutes on each side.  Season with salt and pepper.

While fish sautes, chop toppings.  I think onion, cilantro, and lime wedges are perfect and something crunchy like lettuce or cabbage is nice also.   I added mango, too.

Warm tortillas and fill tacos.  These made about 8 tacos for me. Serve immediately and top with salsa.  Yum.

happy fall!

This summer was full of  hard decisions and ridiculous weather.  Bring on the fall! 

barbecue competition featuring...grass fed beef!

I'm going to be cramming chemistry into my head all weekend and also getting rid of stuff, as we are moving in a week...woohoo :)  If I have time on Sunday, I am going to check out:

gooakcliff.org

this Sustainable & Grass Fed BBQ competition in Oak Cliff on Sunday...Dallas is cool sometimes!

melancholy

All of my projects piled up on me this week, well mostly its my first chemistry exam next Tuesday that has taken over my life...but I have been feeling a little nostalgic for when I was younger in a different (easier?) time and place; magnified by the early death of Rich Cronin, who was the lead singer of LFO... the song Summer Girls definitely transports me back to long carefree summer days.

long weekend fun

After chem lab on Friday, we sped up to Kansas to spend the weekend with my family.  My mom moved up to Wichita in June; she is the head of an independent school there.

The weather was amazing; crisp and cool and we had a lot of fun; Wichita is probably the most underated city, which I am fine with because there is never any traffic.  Ever.  Highlights:

Watermark books and cafe, similar to Book People in Austin, where my mom bought me this awesome cookbook...I want to go here

vegetarian platter at N and J's (picture via yelp)

Warren Square, Old Town

Joey played golf all weekend while I did pilates with my mom, ate at N and J's, played tennis for the first time in like 2 years, and made pumpkin muffins.

Back to Dallas...

from the fall issue...

of Edible Dallas and Fort Worth:

"sometimes it's good not to get exactly what you want whenever you want it; sometimes it's better to be open to what a season has to offer, to celebrate what's already there."

-from Twain's Feast by Andrew Beahrs, via Edible Dallas and Fort Worth

free yoga!

I'm heading to Kansas later this afternoon for some weekend family time, after my first (!) chem lab this morning...I even have goggles!

Also, Monday is a free day of yoga; participating studios:

http://www.dfwfreedayofyoga.com/members/

ps

today is 90210

ahhh...

rainy and 75? yes, please! it has been a really, really hot summer in Dallas, but today it is rainy and 75; it feels goood.

Also, I'm currently reading:

 "In this fascinating book we learn how powerful, intrusive, influential, and invasive big industry is and how we must constantly be to prevent it from influencing not only our own personal nutritional choices, but those of our government agencies."

-Julia Child

first day of September

Rabbit, Rabbit!

surprising my muscles

I am switching up my workout, which is really important to do; routine = see no results. So, I tried a bootcamp this morning at Golds.  My fav yoga instructor taught the bootcamp and it was an awesome change of pace.

The first 30 minutes were circuit type excercises (push-ups, abs, lunges, jacks, etc.), followed by 30 minutes of cycling.  I loved it, especially the spinning part!  ...which may not sound surprising, but I haven't done a cycle class in 2 years because I thought I didn't like it, but this one kicked my butt; I was gasping for breath.  I think the combo of circuit and cycle was awesome and I am going back again as soon as I can.

healthy food in Dallas recap

I often (internally) gripe about how few healthy restaurants there are in Dallas compared to how huge the city is, but this weekend I had a few really great food experiences:

Starting on Thursday evening, I went to a bootcamp at the Preston Center Gold's, which rocked, mostly because of the suicides (sprinting back and forth) that kicked my butt, followed by a fabulous Bliss dinner; Bliss is a raw vegan cafe that happens to be right across the street.

I got the Bliss burger, which is a yummy veggie burger. I also got to sample my friend's entrees: the kale coconut enchiladas and the spaghetti and "meat" balls, which were both really good too. Their desserts are probably the best though; we split the lemon ginger cake which was so good!

bliss burger (via yelp)

Then, on Friday, I made lunch featuring Central Market mozzarella cheese and Texas tomatoes on a multigrain baguette; so good! 

On Sunday, we went to the Addison farmer's market, which is new and still fairly small, but we got the best local produce I have had in a long time! A watermelon the size of a five-year old, the best tomatoes, zucchini, cantaloupe, peaches, and a baguette.

To top it off, I went to one of my favorite vegetarian restaurants called Cosmic Cafe today for lunch to celebrate my friend's birthday.  I love Buddha's delight and definitely save room for their vegan cakes!

Buddha's Delight

Mystic Pizza

vegan strawberry cake...so good

good food

Last Friday was a day of change for me; first day of school/last day of cooking camp for the summer.  Reflecting back on the summer camp, I learned a lot about working with kids and also about cooking.  I learned how to simultaneously pay attention to cooking while also entertaining/keeping a group of kids safe. One of was my favorite parts of the summer camp was that we made something new everyday; tasty things that I usually don't get to make on a regular basis, like homemade bread and souffles.

To celebrate, we went to dinner at an awesome chinese food place.  Now, I am usually not a fan of chinese food because it tends to give me a tummy ache, but I was craving it and Royal China in Dallas was fresh and so good; they even have a homemade dumpling bar!! (photos via yelp):

pretty steamed dumpling sampler (shrimp, veggie, chicken, pork); shrimp was my favorite

scallion pancake

I also got wonton soup which was really good too.  I will definitely be going back!

an insightful valedictorian speech:

http://www.lewrockwell.com/pr/valedictorian-against-schooling.html

I was not this insightful at 18.

"why sometimes,

     I've believed as many as 6 impossible things before breakfast."

      -Alice in Wonderland

Me llamo Leah

...or (practically) the only thing I know how to say in Spanish.  I went to dinner at my friend's house last night where I was the only one who spoke English as a first language.  I had a fabulous time, but I would be way cooler if I was bilingual.

chemistry and yoga

I would first like to announce that I have gotten my act together and I am officially taking Chem 1 this semester, which starts on Friday!  I am nervous because I haven't taken chemistry since I was 17, but I am excited to be embarking on a new challenge.

Also, I am not sure that I have mentioned my love for yoga before, but I love yoga. 

My love for yoga happened about 2 years ago, when I took a few Bikram yoga classes in San Antonio.  Then, when I moved to Dallas, I was ecstatic to find awesome yoga classes at my Gold's Gym.  I used to think I didn't like yoga, due to a boring Hatha yoga class in college, but I love yoga that makes me sweaty and content.

I got a 10 day pass on Thursday to Twist Power Yoga in Dallas and it rocks.  I went to a restorative yoga class yesterday after teaching Bodystep and it felt so good. Try it out if you live close by or find a yoga class near you; there are so many great classes now.

so hot right now

Literally.  106 degrees yesterday.  But, I am actually talking about Duxbury Oysters:

currently reading...

I found this at a used bookstore on Newbury Street and I had to get it; I loved Ommnivore's Dilemna.  So far, I am finding the subjects to be captivating and I am learning a lot.  I highly recommend it!

goodbye Boston, hello Fort Lauderdale!

Bye for now Boston, see you next summer!

hi Southbeach!

I was only in Boston for two nights, and I then continued on to Fort Lauderdale to visit my dad.  I spent the rest of the week in paradise, eating mangos from his tree and just enjoying some family time.

mango tree

he loves me, really!

I am already back to reality, but I am still savoring my perfect week.

Boston in the summer

Exactly a week ago I was in Boston to look at BU's Masters in Gastronomy program. I had a perfect trip; I am from Massachusetts, but I hadn't been back in four years and I feel more like myself than I have in a long time.

view from my hotel room

farmer's market in the city

view from Brookline to BU

I have decided that I am not going to attend the program, at least not right now, because I want to focus on becoming a nutritionist. I have been hesitant about this for so long because of the science prereqs I have to take, but I am going for it and I feel good!! I am planning on taking chem 1 at UT Dallas this fall, I just have to work out the final details.

my watch

I occasionally work at the store next to where I teach kids cooking classes, and they sell these unique inexpensive watches in dozens of pretty colors.  Before I bought this watch, I hadn't worn one in a long time; my cell phone had replaced the need.  You can buy it online, but definitely check the local retailers because it is less expensive where I work.  Overall I love this watch because it is so cute and perfect for working out, but it does run slow; I have to reset it every week or so. 

imazine.com

Update: my watch broke :( And I lost it. Must get replacement...

these are a few of my favorite things p1

The Neistat Brothers

via HBO

I love HBO.  They tend have great shows, but this is my favorite series yet.  The lives of these brothers are highlighted through the creative short films they make.  I love these guys; they are always travelling and every trip is their best one ever! This show strikes a cord with me and I find it very inspiring. On the last episode they made an awesome graph about following your dreams (risky) v. sticking middle class comforts (less fulfilling).  My description of this show is not going to do it justice so just go watch it.

back from the BVI

I had an opportunity to go an exciting vacation this summer; a sailing trip through the British Virgin Islands!  This vacation was different than any vacation that I have ever been on and I loved every second of it. 

I grew up in a small beach town, and I now live in Texas (not anywhere near the beach), so it was great to be on the water again.

Here is a picture of our boat:

One of the great things about this vacation is that I could really escape reality; I didn't use a computer or cell phone for 9 days!  I also have a great book recomendation that absorbed my interest for over half of the trip:

Bizarre and dream-like (really it is), this is not a beach read but I loved it!  A really unique book.

a perfect fit

Every once in a while, I come across a friend or a stranger who has found the path that is perfect for them.  Everything has clicked and they are not only outstanding at what they do, but you can tell that they are loving every second of it; ahh, I love when that happens!

Shed 1, Dallas Farmer's Market

The first time I went to the Dallas Farmer's Market was in late November 2008.  I had just moved to Dallas and I had high expectations because it is such a large city.  I love both the Austin and Wichita Farmer's markets, which feature local farmers and artisans selling their goods seasonally on Saturday mornings (which I think is typical of most).  I was disappointed because the Dallas market was different; most of the produce offered was from vendors, and it wasn't local, not even to Texas! 

However, I was pleasantly surprised when I went there again on Sunday; there is now a whole local section in Shed 1; not all of the vendors are local in Shed 1, but towards the back, there are farmers selling their local produce.  Hooray!!  I found yummy tomatoes, peaches, basil, onions, and cantaloupe.  There was still some things to be desired, like local meats and cheeses, but I think that this market has potential and the facilities are excellent.

we are all the same, we are all different.

Sometimes I forget that not everyone has the same passions as me (wait, not everyone is passionate about whole grains and bodystep?), or the same dislikes (televised sports? yawn.)  But other times, I am comforted to find friends that experience similar struggles and challenges (with jobs and weight, for example.) 

"go. make something happen"

-seth godin

via my new favorite (virtual) place for inspiration

friday recipe review

image via wholefoods

The fig bar recipe that I made for my birthday, to which I made a few small changes; I replaced the currants with dates and I added some Jack Daniels to the orange juice for the dried fruit to soak up (Yum!).  Next time, I might try dried cherries and frambois.  I also added brown sugar to the crumble topping.  Overall, they were very good and healthy tasting, and they were better the next day, once they had a chance to set.

Have a wonderful and safe Memorial Day!

twenty-five

Having a big birthday is a milestone that feels like new years day, as it is a time to reflect upon the past year; what I have accomplished? what I could do better this time around?

I turned 25 yesterday.  I had a great day filled with fitness (I brought fig bars to my Silver Sneakers class), calls from family and friends, and a wonderful dinner at Bolsa in Dallas. 

I also went to the library (I love the Library!) and stumbled upon a book called 20 Something Manifesto. I must admit that I almost didn't check it out because the title sounded a bit hokey, but I am so glad that I brought it home with me!  I just started reading this book, but it is wonderful so far; I am not alone in all of the pressures that I have been feeling.  I highly recommend this book so far and I will do a book review once I finish reading it.

Relfecting

I have been a busy bee since my last post in February.  For about six months, I had been unsuccessfully searching for a job.  But, on January 26th, I miraculously received two job offers; I accepted a part-time job at a gourmet market.  Then, a few weeks later, I was offered a job teaching kids' cooking classes (!), which I happily accepted.  So, I had 3 jobs, as I also teach group fitness classes twice a week.  I love being busy and working hard, but I was  a little overextended, so I am now focusing on teaching cooking classes, working at the toy store next door, and teaching my group fitness classes.  I am thrilled to have a chance to work at what I love doing.

Also, since my last post, I passed my AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America) certification!

Phew!  But, I now have time to focus on my blog again!

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

The Great American Apparel Diet

As a culture, we are addicted to buying new things.  Constantly.  And in excess. 

Some people have to have the newest electronics, but I am not often tempted by gadgets.  I do, however, love clothes. I love how we can express ourselves through clothing. I love beautiful fabrics.  I even love fashion trends. 

But I am trying to reduce extraneous purchases from my life, which is why the Great American Apparel Diet appeals to me. This is a group of individuals who have pledged to completely eliminate buying clothing for one year.  Check out http://www.thegreatamericanappareldiet.com/ to read their posts and anyone can join at anytime (I am considering joining, too).

oh sugar sugar...

Last Wednesday, I decided to give up sugar for a while; this is a huge challenge because I loooove desserts and they have become more of a habit than a treat lately.  A couple notable examples:

A red velvet cupcake from Sprinkles (soo good, I don't even usually like red velvet...)

White chocolate tart, nilla crust, brulee'd bananas from Bolsa (if you are in the Dallas area and haven't been to Bolsa yet, stop what you are doing and go immediately)

I think the photos above confirm my decision; I need a serious break from decadent desserts.  At first, I definitely felt withdrawl symptoms (and sugar has been shown to be addictive.)  I did slip on Saturday when I went to lunch with my family and chocolate chip cookies were passed around for dessert.  But, it is a new week and I am up for the challenge!  I am going to post weekly on my progress to help keep myself in line (and hopefully as motivation for others that are looking to give up desserts for a while!!).

back to basics continued...

An inspiring article on living simply

Back to Basics

image via design sponge

For the past six months, I have been trying to save money by only buying bare necesities because I have not had a steady income, partly due to the economy and I also am trying to follow my passions.  I love beautiful clothes and objects, so this has been and continues to be a struggle and a learning process.  As young women we are bombarded with messages to spend and buy, and are tempted at every turn to spend our hard-earned money, which makes it even more tempting to not save, and buying stuff brings instant gratification, and saving money is not as fun and is can be frustrating.  But, being frugal can be important for so many reasons... it is even better for the environment!  So, I would like to make this blog a safe haven where saving our money is actually encouraged!  I found this quote from design sponge really encouraging and inspiring:

"We tried to keep simple, basic colors to emphasize the simplicity of peasant life and our determination to take this journey and explore the times when life was simpler and maybe even more beautiful and healthier."

-iva and vanja via design sponge

Spinach Artichoke Dip

This is my very favorite Spinach Artichoke dip and I have made this yummy version too many times to count; it is so savory and full of spinach. I like to bring it to parties because it is healthy and a crowd pleaser (perfect for super bowl parties). Adapted from Rachel Ray Magazine, this version doesn't have mayonnaise or sour cream, which you will never miss because a roux is used as the thickening agent to create a smooth and satisfying accompaniment to your favorite dippers (I like carrot sticks and whole grain baguette.) Enjoy!

Spinach Artichoke Dip
Adapted from Rachel Ray Magazine
6 Servings (or more...)
---------------------------------
2 10 oz boxes chopped frozen spinach

2 T butter

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 Sm onion, finely chopped

2 T fresh thyme (LD: optional)

2 t lemon zest (LD: optional)

2 T flour

2 C chicken broth

1/8 t nutmeg

1 13.73 oz can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped

1 c grated Parmagiano-Reggiano cheese

1 c shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions:

1. In a microwaveable bowl, defrost the spinach in the microwave from 6-8 minutes. Drain the spinach and wring dry

2. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for about another minute. Stir in thyme and lemon peel (optional). Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
3. Increase the heat to high and cook, whisking often, until thickened until thickened, 6-8 minutes.
4. Stir in the spinach, artichokes, and half of the Parmigiano-Regiano and mozzarella cheeses. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining cheeses on top.
5. Preheat the broiler. Broil the dip until bubbly and lightly browned, about 3 minutes.

Enjoy!! I prefer this dip hot right out of the broiler. Dipping suggestions? Whole grain baguette, carrot sticks, celery sticks, pita chips.

A little indulgence...

I think that this has been a sucessful week of healthy posts.  So, I would like to end the week with an indulgent book recommendation, the much talked about: My Life in France by Julia Child.  I love Julia Child, I think that she is so real and relatable and I loved this memoir.  It is an easy read and it will make you want to catch the next flight to France to enjoy lots of wine and French food!

So cute.

Nutrition Inspiration

I think that everyone needs a little encouragement to stay dedicated to a healthy lifestyle.  When I need a boost of encouragement I look to the following sources:

Ellie Krieger

She is a nutritionist who knows that it is a brutal world out there for healthy eaters.  I love her show Healthy Appetite on the Food Network, but it hasn't been playing recently. (Bring back Ellie, Food Network!!) But, she has a website and many of her recipes can be found here.

Ahh, I love her positive approach to nutrition :)

Dr. Andrew Weil

I also really enjoy Dr. Andrew Weil's view on food and wellness.  He is a huge proponent of integrative medicine and believes that food can be healing and pleasurable.  His views are not for everyone and maybe should be taken with a grain of salt, but his website provides lots of good information that is updated every Monday with a few new articles.  Oh, and I also highly recommend his book, Eating Well For Optimum Health: The Essential Guide to Bringing Health and Pleasure Back to Eating which I re-read often and use a reference.

Respect the beard

Heidi Swanson

For healthy recipe inspiration, I turn to 101cookbooks.com.  I have used so many of her recipes that turn unusual healthy ingredients into approachable and delicious vegetarian dishes.  Recipes that I have in regular rotation include: the best pizza dough using white whole wheat flour, a delicious healthy cookie recipe that uses almond meal and mashed bananas as its base, oh and I love her unfussy apple cake recipe which I posted about in August using stone fruit.  Also, her book Super Natural Cooking, is a great reference full of her beautiful photos.

Yum.

Phew!  That's all I have for today.  Let me know what your favorite healthy inspiration sources are!

Edible Communities

Have you heard of the Edible Community publications? These free magazines are available in most cities and they celebrate local, fresh food each season.  I first discovered Edible Austin when I lived in San Antonio and now that I'm in Dallas, one of my favorite local food resources is Edible Dallas and Fort Worth.  The best part about these publications is that they are locally owned, so each Edible has a unique flavor!  Available at places like Farmer's Markets and Whole Foods.

Edible Dallas & Fort Worth

Check out ediblecommunities.com to see if your city is Edible!

I love Body Step!!

So...have you heard of Les Mills?  They are this awesome company based out of awesome New Zealand and they create the best most challening group fitness classes! I discovered Les Mills classes when I was working at my sedentary desk job right out of college, and they kept me from going stir-crazy in that period of my life. Fast forward almost 3 years later and I am still a Body Step addict and also I became an Instructor myself!!

lesmills.com

If you are looking for a way to get back into shape, stay motivated, or just to have a little fun, check it out; they have a classes all around the world at all different gyms and there are classes for everyone!!

Healthy Habits

All week long I am going to be posting healthy tips and inspiring resources!!

Frustration and Gratitude

I am currently in the midst of job searching and I am completely frustrated with the lack of available jobs in this crazy economy. 

But, I am also very thankful for all that I do have and my heart goes out to those in need, especially in the midst of the disaster in Haiti.

image via thepioneerwoman.com

The Red Cross is accepting donations (as are the many other organizations that are lending a hand as well).

"It takes a community to sustain a small farm..."

image via seriouseats.com

Local and community farming is a great emerging trend that could help solve a lot of the food issues that we face today.  But, it takes more than dedicated farmers to produce local food; "to have a truly local food system, we also need local butchers, bakers and millers, local truck drivers, local grocers, and a community that supports them in all their efforts."   Check out this article, which makes me want to open a local grocery store!!