MY WIFE and I recently had a few friends over for pizza, and our usual debate on politics and classism broke out feverishly. We sat there eating pizza and drinking soda, pretending it was wild-caught salmon and Brace’s apple cider.

I mentioned that we were doing a poor job of eating healthy foods.

My comment threw fuel into the debate fire, as I was told that middle-class people cannot afford to eat healthy foods. We are “classed” out of what seems to be a God-given right, my good friend said. “We have to shop at the mega ‘box stores’ to survive economically.”

Searching for a witty comeback, I realized that most of us in the debate could stand to lose a few pounds. I looked at the chips, Pop-Tarts and iced tea in my cupboards and – while contemplating all of the health issues impacting Americans – realized there is a completely different formula that negates the “class consumption ceiling” (a newly coined phrase, I think).

Take a look at what you eat and drink every day. If it is highly processed and comes in cellophane, or is a soft drink, stop consuming it. Instead, convert the dollars you would have used to purchase it (and the medications that often are consequential to bad eating) to buy nutrient-rich foods. I, for one, can greatly benefit from such a change.

A quick Google search reveals that the average American adult consumes 4,000 calories a day but needs only 2,000. While I might think I need to join a gym and get my next co-pay together for hypertension medication, instead all I need is to eat well, work hard and go for walks with my family.

When considering the economics of a poor diet, do the math. And don’t forget to add this to the equation: feeling better. How much do those 2,000 extra calories cost? What is the value of being healthy, feeling and functioning better, and living longer?

In dollars, three liters of soda equals a salad for two. A candy bar equals a piece of fruit. One co-pay for high blood pressure pills equals a pound of wild-caught salmon. The conversions are limitless.

As I write, I am digesting an evening dinner, which was ironically held at the house of my friend who said we are outclassed when it comes to eating well. While I had been finishing my work day, my friends, my wife and two girls prepared chicken kabobs with peppers, onions, mushrooms and a zucchini that was grown in another friend’s garden. Also on the counter were tomatoes and cucumbers. I had the best meal I’ve had in months.

I cannot tell you the cost of the two pounds of grilled chicken breast or the vegetables, but I can tell you the pizza and soda we had last week was $37. Best of all, my girls had fun making a healthy meal.

In the future I can only hope to have the willpower to follow my own logic and, before sitting down to eat, ask myself which foods are really “affordable.”

Posted on Sep 1, 2011 in Blog •   No Comments

Precocious Knows

There is nothing more special than welcoming calves to our barns.  Witnessing newborn life in its most pure, innocent and vulnerable form is an experience that sticks.   Visitors to our barns and nursery often ask how the animals so quickly adapt to their new surroundings.  Almost effortlessly the calves learn about behaviors, eating and most importantly, safety.  Quite simply, calves (along with our other farm animals) learn by observing their Mothers; in some cases the “Mom” is a member of our trusted barn crew.  We believe our calves if guided and nurtured properly will most likely reach their full potential.   We feel as strongly about children as well.

I often wonder if parents or other adults realize the powerful impact they have on children.  Kids, from when they are quite young, often imitate the world around them.  Honestly, I cannot think of a better way to teach children the value of kindness and respect than by example.

The great thing about teaching by example is that it does not cost money or time – only awareness.  For instance, if you see a piece of liter on the ground do you ignore it? Do you toss bottles, cans and newspapers or do you recycle?  Do you slow down at mealtime to recognize the farmers and others who worked so you could have food?  Do you take the time to share this with your children?  Even younger kids can have a basic understanding and appreciation how work and sacrifice fits into the big family picture.   When you see someone a bit different – be it the color of skin, style or general appearance do you react with hesitation or ever distrust?  Do you quietly volunteer for projects for the sake of kindness, not kudos?

The mission here at The Lands is to teach sustainability and self-sufficiency and we do this primarily through educational tours and workshops.   Each year our educators and animal “co-faculty” members welcome nearly 4,000 students to the farm.  We stress the delicate balance among humans, animals and nature, demonstrating how we all are interconnected.  What is most satisfying about our programs is seeing our message “click” with the students.   You can have a profound impact a child’s life by your everyday actions – good or bad.  This means every day you have an opportunity to teach and ultimately help shape our future.

Posted on Aug 25, 2011 in Blog •   No Comments

Day 1 of the blog and day 2,088 of The Lands at Hillside Farms.  Forget the history.  There are enough current events to talk about.  It is the last week of summer camp and the first day for on-site preparation for our new store that should open up behind the dairy store this Fall.  We have the concept down and are vetting out products but it is the “no name” store as of now.  We need a great name for a store that sells earthy American made products with a sharp focus on local products.

Posted on May 24, 2011 in Blog •   No Comments