A couple weeks ago, I wrote about my favorite healthy eating books of 2008. Based on some of the new information that I uncovered in these delicious books, I dreamt up some New Year’s resolutions for 2009. I decided that each resolution would encourage my own personal growth and well-being, but I also wanted each resolution to have a longer lasting and friendly effect on my community and the environment.

1. Grow a garden. Okay, let me rephrase that - currently, I can barely keep my bamboo plant alive, which only requires 1x/month watering. But I really want to grow at least one plant in my kitchen, patio or backyard, keep it alive as long as possible and then hopefully eat it. I am finished buying overpriced and over-packaged basil and dill at the local grocery store. I really want to see the beautiful and fresh stuff blossoming in my home, reminding me to whip up some delicious pasta or homemade salad dressing.



2. Read more produce labels at the grocery store and be mindful of the agricultural seasons. Last winter, I bought strawberries in December and blueberries in February, not paying an ounce of attention to the million mile commute the berries had to make to my dinner table. And I hope to buy almost 100% locally grown produce at farmer’s markets next summer here in Colorado.



3. Support local shops. In the past, I have been a total Starbucks addict, supporting the corporate world and selfishly negating my hometown of 100,000 folks in Westminster, CO who always need local support. I have decided to search out a locally owned coffee shop to buy my ground beans and yummy frappucino-like summer drinks. Wish me luck.



4. Get creative with fruits and vegetables. Every week, I get a beautiful box of fruits and vegetables delivered to my doorstep from a local, organic produce delivery service. The box is filled with dirt-covered carrots and fresh out of the ground collard greens. I am giddy with excitement when I open the box every Thursday. But despite my excitement on delivery day, I always end up wasting a head of greens or a few apples. This year, I want to find some new fruit and vegetable recipes - so far, I made “lettuce wraps” this week with my collard greens (similar to the ones you can order at PF Chang’s Restaurant). They were so delicious, and I had no idea those greens could be so crunchy and delicious with a fun surprise inside!

So there you have it, my goals for 2009. As the months go by this year, I will keep you informed of my progress. Do you have any ambitious New Year’s resolutions? Share them and let’s get inspired together!