Several months ago, I wrote about a confluence of factors that helped create the substantial sustainability problems our food system now faces (see “The Rise and Fall of Nutritionism Ideology“).

The first time I got ready to take the 100 Mile Challenge, I remember feeling like I was preparing to enter a food gulag.  I gazed lovingly, regretfully at each banana, packaged cookie, and mango that passed through my hands.  "Farewell," I whispered, sighing.
 
I've grown up a bit since then.  I know now that trying to eat entirely locally for one week is not really so very hard, certainly not at the peak of the harvest season.

High Mowing Organic Seed Vegetable Growers' Walk

Local food. 100-mile radius. Seasonal eating. All great ideas, but why would anyone commit to abide by such rules for an entire week in a place like Vermont?

I love food. I love Vermont and the food it produces. It's a little embarrassing to admit, but I get a little teary when I tell people how I feel about our weekly visit to the Intervale Community Farm, with my boys playing in the kids' garden and me visiting with friends as we pick beans and flowers and weigh out our carrots and beets.