IrishGirlAlly

I'm a daughter, a sister, a wife, a mother, an employee, an acquaintance, a whiner, a nurturer, a friend and a walking wealth of random (and sometimes useless) facts.

I'm a Jane of all trades and a master of none.

I try to live as a pessimistic optimist so that, when I am disappointed by life or someone in it, I don't dwell and let it ruin my week but I feel justified in my hope when something DOES succeed.

I and my husband have spent almost the last 10 years trying to better our knowledge of healthy food and a healthy lifestyle. We're at the age where many of our older family member are beginning to pass away and their illnesses and ailments have really turned our focus on to what will perpetuate longevity and better our quality of life.

Since bringing two wonderful, happy children into this world 7 years ago, we've increased our efforts as it affects them and their future health. Availability and accessibility of healthy food has become much easier since we were kids and we're determined to instill a better sense of nutrition in our children than we, ourselves, possessed in our youth.

In that effort, we've chosen to seek out the healthiest, freshest food we possibly can for our girls. In comparative terms, we're doing well. We're about middle of the road. We're not radical vegans, but the only fast food restaurant chain we allow ourselves to visit is Subway.

Over the last couple of years, we gradually made farmer's markets a fun part of our lives during the summer weekends. We feel a sense of pride and excitement when we sit down to dinner and recognize that everything in front of us is local, organic or chemical-free. About 6 months ago, we decided to make Trader Joe's our primary grocery store (we used to frequent Stop & Shop). We would love to shop at Whole Foods for the greater selection, but we simply can't afford it on our fixed income. As well, we like the Trader Joe ethics and smaller business 'feel'. The employees there are ALWAYS super nice and extremely helpful. Because of the variety, grocery shopping has now become an enjoyable adventure for the whole family.

It's our intention to devote a great deal of time seeking out new and uncharted farmer's markets and stands in Connecticut this summer, even if it means a slightly longer road trip. I'd like to share my experiences about these visits and seek input from others. I'm hoping it will expand our existing healthy meal plans while simultaneously supporting local farms and sustainability.

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