If you’ve read my first blog post, you’ll cut me some slack, because you’ll know I came into this food lifestyle a little late. But once I make this next confession, maybe not.

So I cheated a little bit. The CSA I signed up for stands for Community Supported… Alcohol. It is a wine CSA from Sleepycreek Vineyards which offers shares of 3 bottles of wine, 4 times a year. Hey, you gotta start somewhere, am I right?

And if I’m going to start somewhere, why not wine?

But I have been giving serious consideration to many different types of CSAs this spring. Of course the classic monthly produce basket is tempting, but a little frightening for many. I have a similar concern to many: that I won’t know what to do with all those unknown vegetables. And although I agree with the argument that having this constant supply will encourage me to eat more vegetables as well as trying new ones, I can’t shake that fear quite yet. I’m not okay with wasting food.Then I considered a meat CSA. Bane Family Meats is offering one this year. I figured that meat can be easily frozen and saved. Also I will be living with a 22 year old male, so I know that all animal proteins will be consumed. I looked further into it and even though it was a great deal for what you got, the upfront cost was just a little bit out of my price range.

So, as was no surprise to anyone, I settled on wine. And I couldn’t be happier. The beauty of the CSA is that you make a commitment and decision up front and then get to enjoy the benefits for months after. I will be getting different bottles of wine throughout the next year, trying ones I never would have had the guts to purchase and always having a spare bottle on hand. And since I paid for it all up front, it FEELS like I’m getting free wine all the time!

I love the idea of the CSA. I love that they make you commit to regularly getting something (veggies, local meat, wine) that you may not have done on your own. I love that they take you outside of your comfort zone to do something that is good for you (well maybe not the wine so much) and good for your local farmers.

I am still waffling over joining a local flower CSA. Thinking of having bright colored flowers lighting up my new apartment every week just sounds like a dream. Yes, yes, I know they aren’t vegetables, but baby steps…

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There’s still some time to join some CSAs! Don’t forget to ask your favorite local farmer if they can squeeze you in!