Here's a piece of information my co-workers didn't know abou
t me. My family tree includes Johnny (Chapman) Appleseed - the patron saint of horticulture, gentle humanitarian and fashion icon. From what I know of him, he's a darn good example of someone who followed his bliss and convictions. Of course, it's what all of us want - a life well lived and one that contributes something positive to the world.
Michael Pollan in his 2001 book, "The Botany of Desire," profiled my great, great, great "Uncle Appleseed." Since then, I think I've read every book written by this author. His words capture the sentiments held by so many of us at Great Harvest about creating a lifestyle in sync with our values. He underscores that creating, and consuming, pure-and-simple, close-to-nature products is indeed a noble pursuit.
For those of you unfamiliar with Michael Pollan's work, he has become one of the most influential writers in America on issues relating to real, simple, unprocessed food. His most recent book, "Food Rules," provides inspiration for a healthy and sustainable diet.
My all-time favorite book of Pollan's is the "Omnivore's Dilemma." It's a page turner. He explores the origin and political nature of food, and answers the question "what is the quality of the life of the steer who becomes my steak dinner?" This book changed my eating habits completely and gave me another reason to be proud of the whole grain breads Great Harvest bakery owners produce. We can trace every whole grain to a family-owned farm, and every ingredient in our breads is recognizable - freshly milled whole grain flour, purified water, yeast, honey, salt.
Michael Pollan's books have made me think and buy locally. For the first time in my life I know where a bunch of the food in the fridge comes from. I even know several farmers on a first-name basis. I also have a bevy of hens (Thelma, Louise and Betty) who provide fresh eggs. I have come to appreciate knowing where my food comes from, and the sheer pleasure of preparing and eating foods closest to nature. For a city girl, this is a major life transition.
So who influences your food choices? An eccentric member of your family tree who planted apple seeds along the tributaries of the Muskingum River? Your mom? Your home-ec teacher? A physician? An author? Please share!
