You should see the vegetable garden at Camp Whitman! Inspired by this year's environmental focus, our cook, Cathi Wallwork, and her family planted a garden that will soon be brimming with fresh produce. Along with the usual assortment of summer veggies, there are herbs, sunflowers, and other brightly colored flowers to attract bees and butterflies. The soil on the shores of Seneca Lake must be nutrient rich, because that garden is growing at an astounding rate. Cathi has been inviting campers to sit in the garden with her, where she tells stories, shows her garden journal, complete with pictures of the garden-in-the-making, and invites campers to write down their own comments. What a wonderful addition to our environmental focus!
At home, my garden is growing at a slower, albeit steady pace. I have hope that we may get to enjoy some tomatoes, peppers and squash by summer's end. Earlier this year, I read Barbara Kingsolver's book, Animal, Vegetable, Miracle. It is the story of the author's family's adventures in becoming locavores - eating only what they could produce or purchase in the geographical region in which they live. Concerned about the environmental impacts associated with growing and transporting foods all over the country, and wanting to eat foods that are healthier and tastier, Barbara and her family made a commitment to eat locally for one year, and then wrote a book about the experience. The book is full of information, inspiration, and recipes.
Anticipating the season of fresh, New York grown produce, I am reading the book again. On Saturday, I visited the Webster Farmer's Market, where I found a nice assortment of local fruits, veggies, and baked goods. Next weekend, I hope to check out the market in Fairport. With my first zucchini of the season, I made Zucchini Chocolate Chip cookies. They are delicious. Anyone anticipating a bumper crop of zucchini can check out the recipe at www.animalvegetablemiracle.com
In a week, I will return to Camp Whitman for Middle School Girl Power Camp. I hope to involve the girls in the garden, and we will undoubtedly try out some recipes that feature fresh veggies and fruits. I wonder if I can convince a group of Middle School girls of the pleasure that fresh, well-prepared and healthy food can bring. This week, I'll be trying out some more recipes!
Blessings and Bon Appetit to all,
Cheryl
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