It’s hard to believe that September is here already!  For me this means the beginnings of endings; hazy days and long evenings will be drawing to a close.  Soon summer vacations will be behind us; the barbecues will be fired up less frequently; sandals and shorts will be put away for the season.  But not quite yet…

Back to school time also represents a fresh start for school kids and their parents.  For many people, even those without school-aged children, this is a time of resolution to start things off on the right foot. School and work lunches become a hot topic, as well as quick, easy and nutritious supper ideas.  I find that things go much more smoothly at my house if I plan ahead (I know, easier said than done!)  If I’m on the ball with planning, I chop my veggies ahead of time, so they can be prepared quickly when the time comes.  Here, I’ve got a great variety of organic veggies – zucchini, broccoli, onion, crimini mushrooms, red pepper, and celery.  Sauteing them in fresh garlic is my favourite way to cook them.  Add them to cooked pasta, black beans, and top it with a little raw cheddar and fresh cilantro.  This is just one of the endless possibilities!  Fast and easy, nutritious and delicious.

This is a perfect time to implement a healthy eating plan – harvest is in full swing and will be for a while yet.  Abundant, affordable, local, organic food – it doesn’t get much better than this!