Have you ever paused to reflect on the source of your breakfast today? It’s quite common for us as consumers to remain oblivious to the origins of our food, even when we strive to make health-conscious choices. Regardless of whether you’re dining in the comfort of your home or at a restaurant, there’s an entire life story that unfolds before your plate graces your dining table. Today, we extend our heartfelt acknowledgments, gratitude, and applause to those who dedicate their lives to cultivating, nurturing, and raising the very ingredients that sustain and energize us. Let’s express our gratitude on this National Farmers Day, and remember to do so every day.
In Denver, we are fortunate to have an abundance of fresh produce and protein from local purveyors in Colorado who not only feed us but also contribute to nourishing the entire nation. Each of us has our own favorite local products, here are my top three favorites.
Lazy Bee Ranch Honey
Hudson, CO
Ela Family Farms‘ Peach Plum Jam
Hotchkiss, CO
Sangres Best Beef
Westcliffe, CO
Additionally, our local farmer’s markets, now serving most neighborhoods in the foothills, are brimming with opportunities to support and savor the freshest foods. Many of these markets continue to operate into November, thanks to the pleasant weather. A few notable ones include
Boulder’s Farmer’s Market
South Pearl Farmers Market
Colorado Fresh Markets
Before we express our gratitude, I would like to emphasize the commitment that farmers put into their craft every single day of the year. I had the privilege of participating in a wheat harvest in Cheyenne Wells, a small agricultural town with a width of just one mile. The day spent there, delving into the intricacies of the farming process and the lifestyle, was both an educational and humbling experience. Witnessing the sheer amount of labor, understanding the pivotal role of each grain in the family’s livelihood, and the generational traditions involved in farming were truly fascinating. If you happen to know a farmer or encounter one at a market, take a moment this week to offer them an extra token of your appreciation.
