I am SO blessed to live in Colorado!!

Once again, the Boulder Farmers' Market has begun, and I'm better able to stick to the 100 Mile Diet I am trying to follow (where as much of my food as possible is produced within 100 miles of my home). This year it will get even easier for me. There are a few new farmers that have shown up, and are offering simply amazing foods, and while slightly higher than retail, at the same time, reflect the TRUE cost of our food, plus I'm supporting local farmers... people who I can talk with and who have invited me to come up and check out their farm if I'm interested.

First up: Windsor Dairy (http://www.windsordairy.com/) They provide cheese made from raw milk, and thanks to a recent change in the law, also now provide raw milk for those who buy a share in a cow... raw milk is MUCH healthier than "normal" milk, and it is said that those who are lactose intolerant can drink it without ill effect since the bacteria that make it easier for us to digest are still present... good news for Aaron. I can't afford to completely switch, but I can get a gallon a week of raw milk... and their cheeses are excellent. They also sell organic pork and free range chicken... another two HUGE bonuses.

Next: Natural Homestead Beef (http://www.naturalhomesteadbeef.com/)  Humanely raised beef, and without all of the hormones and crap. I've tried their beef... VERY much like the stuff my best friend had in his home (his family raised beef cattle)... simply amazing.

And finally: High Wire Ranch (http://www.highwireranch.com/) Grass fed bison and ELK. In fact, tomorrow night we're going to be have roast elk for dinner. YUM

Oh... and a new one as well... there was a farmer there with whole wheat grains that he would grind into flour for you while you watched... how FREAKING cool is THAT?? I didn't need the flour but bought it anyway, just because it's that frigging cool. I think I'll make some fresh pasta this week using that flour... or bread... or... I don't know... something anyway. :)

I thought about joining a CSA, but since they usually want the money up front, and because there are some veggies that I just can't stand, I figure I'll continue to pick and choose at the farmers' market.

The meat decision has been easy for me. I've always had a desire to support humanely raised meats, especially if they are local and organic, and lo and behold, I have three options now... VERY cool; especially since as the season progresses, I'll be eating more and more locally... and the food will be simply amazing. It will cost more but the increased nutritional value (and thus the benefit to the overall health and well being of everyone that lives with me) as well as increased karmic benefit will offset that and make it worth it.

I really can't believe I'm fortunate enough to live in Colorado.  Moving here way back in 1991 has proven more beneficial to me than I ever could have imagined.