Spring is officially here, and I’m stoked! The season of rebirth, or starting anew, has, well…started. With the spirit of spring in mind, try something new this year!

If you haven’t done so already, I highly recommend signing up for your local CSA (Community Supported Agriculture). Take advantage of this direct connection with fresh seasonal fruits and veggies, and make a difference for a small farm in your area. I keep watching my calendar waiting for the first spring vegetables to arrive, and can’t wait to dig in! Arugula, beets, carrots, collards, fennel, kale and lettuce! Scallions, raddishes, spinach, swiss chard, and even strawberries! YUM!

Being a CSA member means that I pay a local, organic farmer one lump sum in late winter, and in exchange, I get a weekly allotment of super fresh produce all through late spring, summer, and fall. It often works out to be cheaper than buying organic from the grocery store, and is ultimately more fresh, and therefore longer-lasting.

If you love to cook, or are just getting your feet wet, being a CSA member will provide you with lots to play and experiment with. If you’re unsure, or don’t cook as often, consider splitting a share with a friend, or someone else through your CSA (they’ll be able to connect you with others looking to share).

Find CSA Farms in your area, and sign up. It’s not to late to join a CSA farm for the 2009 growning season!