Local Movement - Info for Newbies

So the new buzz word is "local" and I'm thrilled! I'm excited to see so much interest in our TN communities in local food, products and businesses. For some of you this is nothing new and has been a way of life forever, but for some people it's completely new and they don't know where to go. I enjoy blogging and plan to do more here in the near future but in the meantime I want to share a few things with you.

First of all there is TN Buy Local. Their mission statement: "TN Buy Local (TBL) seeks to prevent the displacement of local independent businesses, ensure ongoing opportunities for entrepreneurs and advance citizen engagement in directing the development of the Middle Tennessee community." This is an exciting organization and I'm proud to be a member of it. Please visit their website for more information on the local movement and membership if you are a local business. Also we currently have small bumper stickers available for purchase for only $2! I will have them with me at all markets I attend. You can also get one from me personally, via US Mail or through the TN Buy Local website. Show your support and purchase one for you and a friend today!

Secondly I receive so many questions on where to begin when trying to eat Real, Whole Food. Here are several excellent sources of information and book recommendations to get you started. And all of these educators are LOCAL to Middle TN!

Vintage Remedies - "was established primarily to fill the gap in natural wellness options. We stand squarely in the middle of the medicine wars, believing that prevention is the key to health and that natural options are usually the best first steps to regain wellness." (You can read the rest of their Mission and Philosophy here)

I have learned so much over the years from Founder Jessie Hawkins and own every single one of her books. I enjoy them all but my favorite is the "Vintage Remedies Guide to Real Food" which you can purchase here. This book is excellent for newbies to eating local, CSA's and wanting to make a real change in their diet. VR is also well known for its Holistic Wellness Program and Family Herbalist Program for continued education. Find more information on those by clicking the Vintage Remedies Banner on the Right Side of my blog.

Chef Shane Kelly - Speaker, Educator and Chef. She is amazing and so is her cookbook! Follow her here for recipes, education and much more!

Dr. Josh Axe - Excellent source of information pertaining to nutrition, diet and exercise. He too also has a cookbook that I highly recommend. You can find it here. Dr. Axe also has a radio show broadcast over Mid TN every Sunday evening from 6-9 pm. Click here for more information on that and podcast subscription.

Moore Living with Sarah - Sarah is a Certified Colon Hydrotherapist and Certified Health Counselor who has most recently joined forces with Season 11 Biggest Loser Contestant Hannah Curlee. Check out her website for more information on in person and skype consultations. And be sure to subscribe to their newsletter here for challenges, contests, information and more!