"Simple Gifts", a dance song written by Shaker Elder Joseph Brackett in 1848, reminds us of the freedom and beauty of living simply. December is often the antithesis of this concept. Are you frantically shopping for presents? Are you overextended with holiday decorating, parties and special outings, present wrapping, traveling, food shopping and preparation? This so-called season of joy can leave you exhausted, stressed and depleted, both physically and financially. Maybe we are going about this all wrong.

In a season that is burdened with over abundance, it is a great time to reflect on the choices we make and how the quality of our lives could be improved by slowing down and simplifying. This might mean eating more simply, thereby improving our diet with whole natural foods, and lowering our grocery bill by breaking our dependency on processed and prepared foods (see the article about Slow Foods). It could mean simplifying our gift giving by giving presents of ourselves and our time, or simplifying our shopping by supporting small independently owned shops, and buying goods that are certified as fair-trade. We can simplify our schedule by being willing to limit our outside commitments, while making time to just be present with our children, parents or loved ones. Being together and sharing the present moment offers a simple gift that is invaluable.

We hope that Harvest Market is a place where you can get in touch with the beauty of a simple life. We offer an environment that is unhurried and personal. We are a community gathering point, where you can bump into a good friend or attend a free lecture. So bring your reusable bag and enjoy a grocery shopping experience that is honest, healthy and simply delicious.