Weblog Entry

“One of the very nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating.” — Luciano Pavarotti and William Wright

As it turns out, that’s not so true anymore. In this crazy modern world we often eat alone, in a hurry, on the go. If nothing else, Thanksgiving is one of the few days it’s still okay to stop everything just for dinner, gather around the table instead of the TV, and linger at a single meal for hours. For that, I am thankful.

I’m also thankful for the hard working farmers who devote so much of their energy to nurturing the happy livestock and thriving crops that enable me to put delicious, healthy, local food on the table this year. And I don’t think I’m the only one. Join me in showing your gratitude by making Local the theme of your holiday meal. We’ll make it easy for you.

This week is the last Market before Thanksgiving. I know most of you have already secured a local, pastured turkey. That’s good news, because they sure did go fast this year. But there’s still plenty of pastured, smoked hams from MeatWorks Butchery & Market. For more intimate gatherings, go small scale with a whole chicken from Falling Sky Farm or Farm Girl Natural Foods. Regardless of which bird you put in the oven, don’t forget the fresh tarragon and parsley from Arkansas Natural Produce. These light herbs really let the natural flavor of poultry shine.

As for sides, you can’t go wrong with Certified Organic sweet potatoes from Crimmins Family Farm or Evangeline sweet potatoes from Drewry Farm & Orchard. Baked, candies or casseroled, these are definitely a holiday staple. Add a little raw honey from The Sweet Life Apiary and you’ve really got something worth sharing. While you’re at it, take the classic green bean cassarole to new heights with fresh green beans from Barnhill Orchard and shiitake mushrooms from ANP.

Maybe you’re worried about having time to make everything from scratch. I suggest giving up on dessert. No, wait! I don’t mean skip dessert. That’s simply not an option. I’m saying it’s okay to order an apple, buttermilk or sweet potato pie from Drewry. Made locally with ingredients from their very own farm, it’s a smart shortcut that can take the pressure off the rest of your day.

And while you’re shopping for your Thanksgiving Day bounty, consider what you eat when the leftovers run out. Our Market will be open next week, but many of our farmers will be taking a much needed break. If you have a few not-so-perishable favorites you just can’t live without, order all you’ll need before ordering closes tomorrow morning. The last thing anyone should have to feel on a day meant for gratitude is regret.

~Rebecca Wild