So my husband and I are trying a new CSA-like service this year — farm fresh produce delivered right to our door by Backyard Produce. Much is organic. Most is semi-local (NC and VA). And it’s seasonal. Unlike a typical CSA, though, which has full or half-shares, these folks have five sizes ranging from Flying Solo ($25/week) to Super Duper ($65/week). And if there’s something in your box you don’t really care for, then you can swap it out and TRADE it for something else. Or save the credit for the next week. And if you are out of town, you can SKIP a delivery too. The flexibility is just amazing.

When the CGP and I did a half-share CSA a few years ago, we found it was just a little too much produce for us and we struggled at times to use it all up. Let’s fast forward a few years … I’m a more adventurous cook now and on a different routine for cooking. So we’re giving the Flying Solo basket a go. This week was a pint of blueberries, a quart of strawberries, two peaches, a large bunch of kale, a pound of yellow squash, and a pound of zucchini. So I think we’re going to see a sangria with the blueberries and peaches, some rhubarb-strawberry pie, and I’m going to try to grill the kale leaves. As I post throughout the season, I’ll try to remember to mention when I’m using something from my box, especially if it’s a new-to-me item.

My friend Bev has been doing a traditional full-share CSA for YEARS. This year, she’s posting each week what’s in her box and what’s she’s planning to do with it — she is much more veggie-oriented than me, so it’s been fun to watch what’s she’s doing. You should check her out at One Week Closer!