Eating Local

I've been vegan on-and-off for the past 10 years and most recently have dedicated much of my diet to raw foods. 

It took me years to warm up to this idea. However, since creating many raw dishes this past March, my level of energy, mental health, and physical wellness has improved ten-fold.

Buying local produce is one of my favorite things to do; especially since going mainly raw. I'm fortunate to live across the street from our local farmers market, which is extremely convenient during spring, summer, and fall months.

When asked how I buy groceries, I have multiple answers- although I get a few staples at Meijer or Oryana Co-Op (places I take the bus or bike to), I prefer buying my vegetables from local farmers.  Supporting my community is extremely important to me, and knowing where my food is grown puts my mind at ease.

In this post, I'll share my Saturday excursion to the Sara Hardy Farmers Market downtown Traverse City, which is just a stones-throw from my apartment.  Sure, I spend a little more on local produce than I may at a regular grocery store, but think about all the gas money I've saved over these past eight years!

One of the things I love about the market is its placemaking in a parking lot. As people enjoy their morning and meet one another, I've reflected on how car-centric places could use empty lots for beautiful gathering spaces.

Our farmers market is held on both Saturdays and Wednesdays all season, which is super convenient for picking up fresh, seasonal goods. Whether you're single like me or have a family to feed, the market has something for everyone- including bike parking thanks to Norte.  Last weekend I even saw multiple e-bikes, cargo bikes, and families going to and from the market with bags upon bags of goods- car-free.

I made a comment to an adorable young family about how much I loved their bikes- with big smiles on their faces, they thanked me and picked up baked goods and coffee at Nine Bean Rows. 

I always love talking with the farmers and local vendors when I shop at the market. I've learned a lot about different vegetables I wouldn't ordinarily buy at the store, such as garlic scapes and rhubarb.  I've sampled kombucha, received tips on what to do with my used tea leaves, and even discovered my favorite face lotion, created from germaniums by Bear Earth Herbals.  

While purchasing curly kale from Spring Hollow Farms, I also stumbled upon cat grass and catnip toys for Kiko, my beloved ginger kitty- the cat grass lasts for over a week and the toys are his very favorite!

I don't know about you, but I used to frequently buy vegetables only to have them go to waste after neglecting them to other food options, such as processed foods or eating take-out. Since mindfully shopping, I've grown to cherish my local foods while creating beautiful meals that are good for both my body and soul.  

These past four months of eating completely vegan have not only benefitted my mental and physical health, I've had fun doing it! If you're interesting in following this path, I highly recommend finding a local market that you love as well as following vegan Instagram accounts or blogs. I've been extremely inspired by others on this journey and have found beautiful things to do with food. As a creative person at heart, food another form of art in my world.  

If you're just getting started, you can find your local market here. I hope you have half as much fun with food as I have!