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Loudoun Naturally: Happy Thanks 'green'ing
Start a new family tradition this year and turn a typically gluttonous holiday “green.” From your food to your place settings, Loudoun County has everything you need to take a healthier (and greener) approach to the season of consumption.
For those of us who live in LoCo we are lucky to be surrounded by a plethora of food resources to make a feast complete and nutrient dense. Although the grocery store may seem a more convenient option, Thanksgiving is a great opportunity to get the family in the car and discover the cornucopia of food that is not only tastier, but usually healthier as well.
Each year I order our turkey from a local farm in Purcellville. When I pick up my bird I know it is allowed to roam free, eat a natural diet of bugs and grubs, and is fed no hormones or antibiotics. Not only is this bird much fresher than a store-bought one, but also I know I am getting all the good stuff I want and none of the “extra” stuff I don't need.
Supporting local farms keeps good food around while stimulating local economy. In addition to the turkey, you can still usually find local squash, potatoes, kale, onions and garlic this time of year. As well as some fresh herbs (you could even grow these yourself from your very own garden, if this black thumb can do it, anyone can!)
Now you will only need a quick trip to the store to grab some good butter and milk, you'll even make it through the express lane bypassing all the loaded carts, and you've got everything you need for a delicious and healthy meal. One year I even made a homemade pumpkin pie from local pumpkins, but I'll admit to stopping by Mom's Apple Pie in Leesburg in a pinch.
A few gourds and some sticks from a tree out back tied together and our centerpiece is not only eye catching but environmentally friendly as well, as are our cloth napkins. If cooking is not for you, you can still do your part to be “green” ... Loudoun County is full of restaurants who have caught on to the healthy, local food movement.
Happy Turkey!
Staci LaRue is a holistic nutritionist, personal trainer and Pilates Instructor who lives in Loudoun County with her husband and son. LaRue works with individual clients, families and groups using a holistic approach to encourage healthy lifestyle habits and nutrient-dense eating. To learn more about Staci or for help on better eating or "green" living, visit www.stacilarue.com.
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