Hi. I’m Christy Brennand and I want to welcome you to Seed To Saucepan.
Many people in this country have little understanding of where our food actually comes from. I was well into my twenties before I even knew what a tomato plant looked like or how an artichoke grew. I had no concept that some vegetables grew underground and others on vines. With fresh vegetables available nearly year-round at most grocery stores, knowing how plants grow and understanding the seasonality of food has little relevance for most people. Fortunately for all of us, there is a cultural shift taking place. Whether we shop at local farmer’s markets, poke a basil plant into a pot at the beginning of summer, or till our back yards into rows of glorious greens, many of us are discovering and embracing a new lifestyle that is focused on eating more locally-grown, plant-based foods. We are finding tremendous joy in knowing where our food comes from. As we are collectively discovering a deep appreciation for the origin and quality of our food, many of us are learning how to grow our own food for the first time.
My involvement in Seed to Saucepan had a quirky beginning. I haven’t yet decided whether it is fate or happenstance, but either way, I believe things happen for a reason. On an early morning bike ride this past summer, I met Judy and her husband, Curtis (co-founders of Botanical Interests) at a look-out point several miles outside of Longmont, Colorado. I’ll never forget— Judy with her camera, taking a picture of Curtis, his arms outstretched as if he was daring the world to take him on, and the view of the entire Colorado front range sprawling behind him— I thought they were tourists. I mean really, who takes their camera with them on a local bike ride? I offered to take a picture of the two of them together, and before you know it we were engaged in a conversation as if we’d been friends for years. Much to my surprise, they were not tourists. And I am glad of that. They both have infectious energy— with an exuberance for life that was instantly attractive.
During the process of getting to know Judy and Curtis, I discovered there is a special synergy between us. Our philosophies about life and business are refreshingly harmonic. We all share a passion for the work we do, and focusing on quality instead of quantity is of paramount importance. One of the things I like most about Judy and Curtis is their approach to life: Do what you do with passion and integrity; enjoy the journey; make the world a better place for as many people as you can and enjoy as many bike rides as you can fit into a busy schedule!
As Botanical Interests’ food liaison, I look forward to sharing with you the wonderful world of food— from seed to saucepan. This blog will feature articles and recipes from world-renowned chefs, and cooks from around the corner, who all share a common passion—creating delicious, nourishing dishes, fresh from the garden. We’ll share with you useful cooking tips, and introduce you to foods you may never have tried before. We’ll help you connect with growing and harvesting seasons so you can fully enjoy nature’s bounty. And of course, we’ll offer guidance and inspiration as you begin growing a garden of your own. Trust me, creating a dish from a seed you personally tended is an unbelievably rewarding— and delicious— experience.
Cheers!
Christy Brennand
