Mission Totally Possible

I am on a mission, well two actually.

I am on a mission. Well maybe it’s two actually.

As a citizen of our beautiful valley I have decided it’s a mission of mine to Support Cowichan Valley Business Growth. As a mother; an aunt; a wife I am on a mission to Support the Well Being of My Family.

Turns out my missions align perfectly. In fact, they might actually be one after all. To keep my family and my community happy, healthy and thriving. How you ask? Keep it local; keep it fresh.

Shopping locally; buying fresh ensures my family eats healthy. At the same time I’m supporting my community by spending money with local businesses, markets and farms.

I am introducing my daughters and my niece to our Valley’s many hidden treasures. They in turn are taking their friends. I am teaching this generation to support the Cowichan Valley’s economy by spending money here. To purchase from independently locally owned businesses whenever possible.

I buy the occasional treat but my focus is on food for the family. Teens are the ones with disposable income. They have money to spend. My daughters now routinely bring friends to Downtown Duncan to shop. They lunch and snack at local restaurants more frequently than fast food.

Silver lining is that when they eat locally, they’re usually eating healthier foods. Not saying that’s why they do it, but it just so happens to be true.

Even the candy they buy is healthier (www.rembrandtschocolates.com).

Don’t tell them this but they are also getting more exercise by walking to Downtown Duncan.

One of the ways I’m supporting Cowichan Valley business growth is through social media. I’m proud to tweet local Follow @ilovecowichanca . I want a Twitter feed jam-packed with everything Cowichan Valley. To follow people from and to be followed by people of the valley.

I’ve hit a bit of a snag. There are not as many local businesses Tweeting as I’d hoped. If I’ve heard it once, I’ve heard it a hundred times…“Twitter? Oh we don’t need that. We’re local only.” If you have a business, yes; yes you do. Won’t let that slow me down. That’s my mission for another day 🙂

Yesterday we went and got a bunch of fresh, local produce. Today we’re having fun partaking in the 4th Annual Cowichan Eat Local Challenge. Thank you Transition Cowichan and Cowichan Green Community!

I am happy spreading the “shop local” message. I am happy helping Cowichan Valley businesses grow. I will continue to shout it out loud; I will continue to shout it over the Internet…

Shop local…make it YOUR MISSION to support your community, your neighbours & your friends! Pretty please 😉

Hope you’re getting out and about enjoying the incredible Valley weather (and all the nummy fresh produce). Take care!

Shelley