Happy Anniversary!

Today is Wilbur's birthday!  He is official one year old today (and if he was actually a true one year old, would probably be pushing around different foods on his plate, completely afraid to try them). 

This is actually so exciting for me.  In one year I have published a book, started a blog (ok, posted a few times, but I DO plan on getting better!),  watched my book sell over 300 (!) copies, read at libraries, preschools, farmers' markets and even elementary schools!  I have been recognized on the street as "the author that wrote that dragon book" and have loved every minute of it.  And that is just one year!  The beauty of Wilbur is that he is pretty timeless.  The topic of local eating is still a hot one, and trying to get children to try new foods is an age-old dilemma that I look forward to helping with. 

I am already looking forward to National Nutrition Month in March, and am setting up some readings in the area.  I will be sure to pass them along as they come up. 

Until then, it is my goal to continue to promote farmers' markets as a great source of community and wonderful food, and to pass along kid and family friendly recipes and tips over the next year.  I hope you will continue to join me on this journey...it truly is just beginning.

Before I go, a favorite Winter Farmers' Market of mine has started up again, and it is wonderful.  If you are local, check it out sometime this season--you will NOT be disappointed! 

http://www.russellsgardencenter.com/wayland_winter_mkt.html

One step at a time...again...

Life would be a lot less complicated if we all just liked the food that is healthy for us...isn't that true?  Regardless of how I want my children or my family to eat, I personally still gravitate towards the foods that I loved as a child--chicken nuggets, pasta with butter and parmesan cheese, french fries, pizza...you name it.  I am actually proud of myself when I "shop the perimeter" of the grocery store, and see all the fruits and veggies and "whole foods" I put in my cart.  It is evidence that even I can change my ways. 

My kids are not always as adventurous as I want them to be (I really can't blame them--I never tried anything new growing up!)  But, I am trying hard to change that,  to help them love healthy food, and encourage them to consider "treats", well...a treat!  Also,  I am making more of an effort to make those treats myself, so I know the ingredients going into them. 

The biggest change I am trying to make is to just include them in the prep work and decision making in the kitchen.  I have a hard time "letting go" and just letting the mess happen.  I've always been that way--I can't deal with all the cleanup associated with them "helping" me, but lately I have been able to let them make a mess while they are preparing a dish--and I have NOT had a nervous breakdown!

I recently read an article about the many benefits of including your child in your (and their) food prep.  http://www.portlandfamily.com/posts/kids-in-the-kitchen-10-benefits-of-cooking-with-children/  After reading this, I know I am making the right decision including them in the dinner-making process.

Also, for a great kids cooking/food magazine, check out ChopChop.  They are fantastic!!  Check it out here: http://www.chopchopmag.org/

Have a great week!