Growing up in Central California means you are surrounded by fresh produce. You didn't have to look far to find a roadside fruit or vegetable stand. I don't believe I truly appreciated the vast selection of fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs & nuts, until I moved to western Louisiana. I remember walking the many rows of grape vines as a kid; picking grapes as I pleased. (No, I wasn't a thief!)
Casa De Fruta in Hollister, CA
 |
| Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/radven/277070559/lightbox/ |
But here, there is not a farm in sight. The crop grown here is lumber.
 |
| Source: http://polyploid.net/lamaps/kisatchie.html |
Trees, trees, trees as far as the can see! However, we did see a few acres of cotton on our trip to Alexandria... but that doesn't really help my situation any. I leave the grocery store each week feeling disappointed by the lack of quality & variety of the fruits and veggies. Don't get me wrong, it's not all despair here, just not the same. All this to say: Sorry California, for taking your beautiful fertile soil for granted. I will back in November to enjoy your delicacies!
I felt the same way the first time I was away from California. After I got over the feelings of homesickness and sadness, I found so many special things that are non-existent in the valley. I traded vineyards and almond orchards, for cuban sandwiches, cajun (!) cooking, and the seafood!! It really does make the trips back home something special! <3
ReplyDelete