I recognize that local food movements and other such similar ideas are very good idea, for a number of reasons. And in the fall I do try to buy local produce when it’s available (Giant Eagle almost always has corn from Preston County.)

Yet I appreciate the fact that I can go to the grocery store and get foods from all over–especially ones that aren’t in season right now, or that don’t grow locally. I’m not saying that there’s anything wrong with ramps and paw-paw, but variety is good.

Especially the variety of citrus fruits available at this time of year. Besides snow, one of the other reasons I love winter is because that’s when citrus fruits are their best. Navel oranges and blood oranges and lemons–this time of year almost makes me wish I liked grapefruit.

Went to the grocery store today and came back today with a box of clementines. I’ve already eaten two, and they were wonderful. Say what you like about the modern would, but I wouldn’t want to give up oranges and clementines and all the other fruits and spices that would never grow here.

And now I think I’ll go have another clementine. Because despite everything, they’re only here in the winter, so I should enjoy them while I can.