Massachusetts Local Food Report

The holidays are upon us—it’s amazing how that happens! And whether we enjoy it or not, most of us tend to get caught up in the numerous festivities and the intense energy of the season.

Now is the perfect time to remember the two themes that give meaning to the holidays: gratitude and generosity. Having the intention of consciously practicing these in a heartfelt way can help ground us and restore at least some of the sanity that seems to evaporate the minute rampant commercialism kicks in.

Reasons To Be Thankful
We’re all thankful for things, and during other times of the year we often take those things for granted. The holidays offer the perfect opportunity to give them the attention they deserve. Have you ever made a list of all the things you’re grateful for? It’s an uplifting tradition you can share with family or whoever you’re celebrating Thanksgiving with.

Once you start a list, you might be surprised at the number of tangible and intangible things that come to mind. Exhaust the possibilities—anything goes! Whether you’re with a group or by yourself, consider adding elements of ritual to your expression of gratitude. The overall process can be as simple or elaborate as you want.

What’s on Your Gift-Giving List?
It’s a great feeling to have found the perfect gifts for dear friends and loved ones—but how often does that actually happen? Instead of getting caught in the cycle of holiday commercialism, consider the alternatives. Here are some reminders that get to the heart of generosity.

(Given that this is the Mass Local Food Report, most suggestions focus on the co-op. However, they’re intended to get the creative juices flowing, so adapt them freely.)

• When coworkers start bringing in delectable treats to share, surprise them with a coffee or tea accompaniment from one of our producers.
• Be the coworker who brings the delectable treats! If you don’t have time to make something yourself, our bakers and cheese producers will happily oblige.
• Volunteer at your local food pantry—or the co-op.
• Offer to deliver groceries or co-op orders to friends and neighbors who have difficulty getting to the market or a pickup site during the winter months.
• Instead of purchasing material gifts, make financial contributions to socially responsible organizations in loved ones’ names.
• Purchase a co-op membership for an elderly relative or neighbor, and then offer to pick up their order each month.
• Support your local artists by shopping at crafts fairs or shops that carry their works. Check out the gift items some of our own artisans are listing.

No matter how you decide to spend your energy—and dollars—this holiday season, we wish you much joy and peace.

Many thanks for your continued support!

The Board of Directors