My Healthy Independence, Kansas Version of Fried Okra

I love okra and during the summer months we see a lot of it here in Independence, Kansas. But, while for the most part it's considered a healthy vegetable, most of us end up dipping into a not so good for you batter and deep frying it into an unhealthy version.

Well, not me! In fact, I can't stand deep fried anything! But it doesn't stop me from loving, and yes eating okra. So, when the Independence, Kansas farmer's market comes around every summer, I make my own healthier version by lightly coating the vegetable in sea salt, cayenne pepper and olive oil. Then, I heat it in a skillet set on medium heat until the okra is tender. The result is a healthy, yet delicious version of fried okra!





Joy Smith also known as The Insane Writer, is the author of the Sci-Fi novel, The Generation. You can email her at silent_beautie@yahoo.com She can also be found on Twitter @theinsanewriter and you visit her official website at www.theinsanewriter.com.



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Let's Get Real

When it comes to diets that work, they require extremely hard work. I mean seriously, why lie about it. You will never find a diet in a magic pill, or cream or lotion. You must be willing to exercise and eat healthy.

And most importantly you've got to be willing to get rid of the processed foods from your life if you want to feel your absolute best. No more junk foods. Of course in reality, most of us are on a budget and always rushing through life. We have no time to slow down and enjoy fresh foods or even life sometimes.

We rely on the convenience of processed foods to get us through our day. But, if you take the time to drop by your local farmers market like the one in my hometown of Independence, Kansas, you'll be amazed at all of the wonderful fresh fruits and vegetables that are very reasonably priced.

Plus, when you shop local, you're not only eating healthier, you're also helping your local farmers. How insanely cool is that?

Thursday's Farmer's Market

I'm a big fan of visiting our local farmer's market here in Independence, KS for produce and other products verses wal-mart. I know it goes right back into the community 100% and its grown locally.

Now generally I've loved every product I've purchased from our local farmers here in Independence, Kansas. But last week I bought some salsa that I discovered was loaded with sugar! It was enough that even the spouse was gagging. So I figured, okay we'll just avoid buying salsa from that farmer.

Then, I tried the bar of beauty soap I bought from that same farmer. It not only left a sticky wax residue, it was like washing down with a candle. And if I put a wick in the sucker I'm betting I could burn it as a candle!

So now, the bad news is, the hubby bought jalapenos from that very same farmer. I'm suddenly wondering if they're going to be a waste of money as well. Now I do have to give that farmer credit, we've bought honey from him more than once in the past and it was awesome. So at least he'll make some money from us there, but as far as the rest of the stuff. Well.... It just isn't worth it.


Joy Smith also known as The Insane Writer, is the author of the Sci-Fi novel, The Generation. You can email her at silent_beautie@yahoo.com She can also be found on Twitter @theinsanewriter and you visit her official website at www.theinsanewriter.com.WomenFreebies.com - Enter to Win Royal Secret II Perfume

Turnips. It's What's For Lunch!

A few days we visited our local farmer's market. It's only available on Thursday which sucks, but one day is better than none. We ended up buying a cantaloupe and some turnips. I was impressed because I only spent 50 cents for a gallon size zip lock bag of turnips. Granted, not many people are a huge fan of turnips due to their strong taste, but I am!


So guess what I made for lunch today? Quite obvious from the title, I know.

Turnips with Rosemary and Soy Cheese

4-6 medium sized turnips
2 TBSP of olive oil butter
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
1/2 cup shredded soy cheese

Wash, peel and dice turnips. Boil turnips in a medium sized pot for 15-20 minutes or until turnips are tender. Remove from heat and drain water. Add butter and stir turnips gently to coat. Add rosemary and cheese and stir gently to coat. Serve and ENJOY!


P.S. If you're not already. Please support your local farmer's market. They are so much better and most don't contain yucky stuff. Plus you're giving money back to your community which is a very important cause!