January 2010

I am a vegetarian, so it might seem odd that I avoid vegetables. This started as a young child. With tightly squinted eyes, I'd firmly grasp my nose between my fingers as I gulped water to wash down the tiniest of cut green beans. A couple decades later, not much has changed. There's perhaps a little less drama, but that's only because no one is threatening my dessert. (I've threatened my husband to not threaten me on this matter.)

I am an advanced extreme of what happens to many Americans. Processed foods and diluted (or sometimes not so diluted) sugar in all it's many forms distort our tastes. This prevents us from liking, or at least appreciating, those foods essential to our health. Healthy eating then becomes a neglected obligation rather than a joyful adventure.

In 2010, I will rediscover that joyful adventure. I resolve to eat more whole grains and at least try one new fruit or vegetable each month. (If that seems too elementary, then maybe I didn't clearly explain just how picky I am.) This is just the beginning to a lifetime effort. Journey with me as I share my monthly experiences in Fresh this Season and Picture This!

Here's What to Expect in January:

Start with Fresh this Season to learn about winter squash. In Picture This! I cook and blend the Butternut variety into a unique soup—picky eaters invited. Read Kitchen Tools & Techniques to get started on researching small kitchen appliances that will really blend things up—fresh smoothies and pureed soups, here we come!