Clean Living

I would say that living a "clean life" is not an easy task. When I use the word "clean," I am thinking about the purification of it all.

If I had my way, I would only eat organic, locally produced food. If I have a choice- that is what I buy. One of my projects for January is to seek out locally produced, preferably organic, food sources in Middle Georgia. While living in Alabama, the egyptian and I were totally there. I shopped at a local farmer's stand less than 1/4 mile from my home. We also frequented Whole Foods and from time to time would take off to the country for fruit and veggie stands. More importantly, we began to eat Halal meat, cheese, and yogurt. It's a passion of mine, always has been.

One of my goals in 2012 is to return to that "pure, clean" living. I think it will be both good for my health and for my soul.

I went out to pick up some groceries for my family last week, and of course, milk was on the list. I chose a carton of organic milk. My mom immediately asked, "Why would you buy that expensive milk?" I just look at her and said, "Because it is good for you."

My niece drinks a cup of warm milk a night. I figured, at least for a few nights she would get a taste of something good for her - less hormones, and happier cows!

Tomorrow I plan to travel a few miles up the country roads here and visit Olive Forge Farm. I found an organic herb farm literally just up the road. I can hardly wait to check this place out, and of course, I will share all my experience with you here. I don't know about you guys, but herbs are just divine in my eyes!! They make everything taste so much better, and if there is a local, organic farm just up the street, well... I think you know I am going to be in heaven.

Unfortunately I was unable to find a website for these guys, I think it is more of a little secret to the area (or maybe they need good marketing people! ;-) ) I did find this story by The Union Recorder, a newspaper in the neighboring town of Milledgeville - Olive Forge ( you can click on the words to see the article.)

Simply cannot wait!

I suppose, this is one of the "New Year's Resolutions" I have for 2012 - return to Clean eating and living.

Have you considered the benefits of eating locally and organically?
Here are a few tips you should consider:
According to the Organic Trade Association -
Organic products meet stringent standards
Organic certification is the public’s assurance that products have been grown and handled according to strict procedures without persistent toxic chemical inputs.

Organic food tastes great!
It’s common sense – well-balanced soils produce strong, healthy plants that become nourishing food for people and animals.

Organic production reduces health risks
Many EPA-approved pesticides were registered long before extensive research linked these chemicals to cancer and other diseases. Organic agriculture is one way to prevent any more of these chemicals from getting into the air, earth and water that sustain us.

Organic farms respect our water resources
The elimination of polluting chemicals and nitrogen leaching, done in combination with soil building, protects and conserves water resources.

Organic farmers build healthy soil
Soil is the foundation of the food chain. The primary focus of organic farming is to use practices that build healthy soils.

Organic farmers work in harmony with nature
Organic agricultural respects the balance demanded of a healthy ecosystem: wildlife is encouraged by including forage crops in rotation and by retaining fence rows, wetlands, and other natural areas.

Organic producers are leaders in innovative research
Organic farmers have led the way, largely at their own expense, with innovative on-farm research aimed at reducing pesticide use and minimizing agriculture’s impact on the environment.

Organic producers strive to preserve diversity
The loss of a large variety of species (biodiversity) is one of the most pressing environmental concerns. The good news is that many organic farmers and gardeners have been collecting and preserving seeds, and growing unusual varieties for decades.

Organic farming helps keep rural communities healthy
USDA reported that in 1997, half of U.S. farm production came from only 2% of farms. Organic agriculture can be a lifeline for small farms because it offers an alternative market where sellers can command fair prices for crops.

Organic abundance – Foods and non-foods alike!
Now every food category has an organic alternative. And non-food agricultural products are being grown organically – even cotton, which most experts felt could not be grown this way.

Organic Trade Association http://www.ota.com/