It seems to me that there is always an excuse to be too busy to find time for the things that matter.
Things that matter to the Larder revolve around the discovery of and sharing of fabulous and tasty small produced food & drink. British food is such an exciting foodie scene and there is so much to try and explore.
I hear myself saying "I'm so busy" or "I'm so tired" more often than I'd like and what could be more tedious or obvious than those two phrases? We all have reason to be busy and tired and wearing these tiresome elements like a badge of honour does us no good at all. We all long for those long Summer days but when they come they also come with a variety of challenges taking up our time. So whether work time or play time, finding time for good food is not only possible I think for a lovely life is essential
Sometimes convenience can take over and with the best will in the world we find ourselves reaching for the mundane, the simple, the familiar, the safe option. Now familiar food is great - I could take endlessly about how important tradition and nostalgia in food and I'm sure I will another day. But when it comes to food I think there is so much to be gained by the question "Does it spark joy?"
I am increasingly saddened by the variety of options available to people to quell their hunger and the impact that poses on the enjoyment of food. Because what is lost is that feel good, special element and simple enjoyment of what you're consuming. The concept of food and fuel is just not one that sits well with me or the Larder. Nor is the idea that only food that is deemed bad for you is where joy lives.
If the Larder had a belief system, which I suppose it does one firm fixture would be that its not all about spending a fortune of food. Good food should be accessible. A good square of cheese on a supermarket brand cracker - thats'll work. Or maybe a supermarket cheese on an artisan cracker. A little finesse and care in what you eat and how you eat it.
For example today, with a tighter than tight budget I bought some chard from my local shop to add to my less glamorous planned dinner. Locally grown, full of colour and texture and vivacity but also supporting the local economy and well... its going to be extremely tasty.
So whats my message? Take time, find time, you have time to bring a little more foodie joy to your world. It doesn't have to be all things all the time but my goodness - don't lose that love of food. For food is wonderful.