Graphic: University of Minnesota, Duluth/Sustainable Food Systems

It must be the season, but lately I’ve been drawn to fruits and vegetables, alongside topics surrounding sustainable food systems and eating healthy. Although I like the idea of growing my own food in my garden, my success has been limited to herbs, which is okay with me since herb gardening fits my schedule. Growing something is better than doing nothing at all. With water, energy, and waste reduction prevalent in discussions everywhere, I am transitioning to a more sustainable lifestyle by making changes in the way I have been doing things. I admit, however, that growing a crop in my garden is not one of the changes I see in my future.

Farmer’s Market photos: Linda Daley

Food is a leisure activity for me. On Sundays, I like going to the farmer’s market and taking part in my community’s weekly ritual of socializing while shopping. Instead of driving there, I walk. I get some exercise, chat with some neighbors, and bring home the seasonal bounties offered by our local farmers. It’s a pretty enjoyable way of spending a Sunday morning.

Baby steps. “Going green” does not have to be such a daunting transition.