Terra Talks…
It’s November already and Thanksgiving isn’t far behind! Do you love the extravagance of a groaning table, more food than you can possibly eat, or special treats shipped long distances, justifying it because “It’s Thanksgiving”? Are we willing to look hard, to ask, “Am I more deserving of extravagant abundance than the farmer in Bangladesh whose fields are poisoned by rising salt water or the Central American coffee farmer whose crops are increasingly damaged by rising temperatures?”
Let’s look at ways we can simplify our choices, to live out our love of God, our neighbor and all creation, and come to Thanksgiving with deep gratitude in our hearts.
Food Choices–Now is the time to thoughtfully plan your menu. Gotta have turkey? Order a pasture-raised, organic one early. Search on-line for “pasture raised turkeys near me” for local sources. Try out plant-based recipes to include. Even small switches matter. Skip bacon in the green beans or nix the cheese tray; swap chicken broth for vegetable broth in the stuffing; top sweet potatoes with vegan marshmallows instead of regular gelatin-filled marshmallows; use olive oil instead of butter in some dishes. Choose local produce and baked goods!
Avoid Food Waste–Simplify the menu (and work!) and make LESS! Skip recipes that can’t be cut down or don’t make good leftovers. Choose ones that are truly special and not just “extras”. Use sites like savethefood.com/guestimator to determine realistic quantities. If guests bring food, ask them to make smaller amounts, too.
Leftovers–Plan how many leftovers you’ll eat in 2-3 days and recipes needed. Have a plan to immediately freeze or share the rest. Sites like lovefoodhatewaste.com have great ideas to use up almost anything!
Create a new tradition of simplicity!
Terra
