I've recently been trying to make healthy, yummy, but budget-friendly meals that I can add to my old standbys. A friend sent me some links to organic cook books and I came across a book called, "Organic Manifesto" by Maria Rodale that I ordered on Amazon.com Even at the grocery store there, seems to me, a bigger push of the organic produce, actually organic everything. Safeway has an entire brand based on organics now. These organic foods are often significantly more expensive than the food treated with  pesticides and preservatives I have spoken with people on both sides of the organic argument and am more confused than ever!

A farmer friend of mine from California says that "organic" is all a hoax as the organic and non-organic growing fields are often bordering one another and water and the pesticides, etc. can flow from one field to another. Another farmer I spoke to at a farmer's market here in Phoenix disagreed and touted organic fruits and vegetables as important pillars in a healthy diet. So, here's my issue....I want to eat healthy. I'm concerned about the impact preservatives and pesticides have on our health. I also want to stick to a budget; with a family of 7 it's a necessity!....Any thoughts/advice?....Amy "You nurse to give your baby the best, let Modest Middles help you look great doing it!"