Earlier in the year, a co-worker introduced me to Full Circle Farm’s Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, and thus changed my life forever

A CSA program is essentially a partnership, if you will, between a “community” of urbanites (you and me) and local farms — people commit to supporting a farm through a membership, and in return, receive a “share” of the farm’s produce. It’s like getting a birthday present every time you open a box full of fresh, organic produce. There are several CSA programs throughout the U.S. – check out Local Harvest’s website to locate one near you (and also see how other people have rated them).

What I really love about Full Circle Farm’s CSA program is the flexibility and strong focus on customer satisfaction.  They have a very user-friendly website where members can modify their accounts and even swap out contents in their boxes before they are delivered. You get an email the weekend prior to your pick-up day that lists out the contents of the upcoming box — if there is something on the list that you’re not particularly fond of (i.e. icky cilantro), you can substitute it for something more to your liking (i.e. sweet, delicious blueberries ). Another wonderful perk — and what I’m most excited about — is the page of great recipes they include in your box each time. So if you get a veggie you’ve never tried before, you’ve got a trusty recipe already on hand. They also include tips on storing and prepping the produce so that you can get the most out of them.

Since joining the CSA program, I’ve been eating a lot healthier and have become more aware (and appreciative) of all the amazing fruits, veggies and herbs grown in our area. Yay for being healthy and supporting local farms!