1. Why is living organic important to you?
Living organic is important to me because it has less impact on the environment and our health. I think it's even better when it comes unpackaged. Isn't it ironic and contradictory that some organics come in packaging, considering the impact of plastics on both environment and health?
2. What was your favorite food growing up?
My favorite food growing up was crepes (it has become my kids' favorite, too). I loved to watch my mom flip them (sometimes they would get stuck to the ceiling), and my brothers and I would compete for eating the most. We still compete, but for slightly more gourmet fare: snails.
3. What's your go-to comfort food now?
Today, comfort eating means sharing a meal with my family and friends. But I most enjoy getting creative in the kitchen. I love reinventing leftovers or incorporating foraged foods into new dishes. I love to throw random foods into my pressure cooker and discover the outcome 20 minutes later. I also like to throw cocktail parties with finger foods created from leftovers.
4. What's the one thing in your kitchen you just couldn't live without?
That's an easy question, no hesitation here: I think a great chef's knife makes all the difference in the world, and that's the first thing I miss when I cook away from home.
5. What magazine, website, book, album, or product are you most obsessed with right now?
Sorry to be boring here, but I am no longer obsessed with media or products. My new lifestyle relies on letting go of attachment from the latter and has proved to be quite liberating!
6. What's the most important news story today that you think we all need to pay more attention to?
It seems like any environmental news is eye opening today. For so long, I lived in denial that things were getting that bad. But when I was ready to listen, I learned a lot and changed my habits. And I have gained a more meaningful and thoughtful life. It's time we realize that our daily actions have an impact on the future. For example, we vote every time we shop. And I am proud to say that I did not vote on Black Friday. I was at the beach making a sand car with my son.
7. Where do you get your news?
We do not have TV or cable, so to stay in touch we stream the daily podcast of The Nightly News through Apple TV.
Bea Johnson and her family strive to live a zero waste lifestyle. Through her blog, she shares waste-reducing tips and inspires readers to take a stance on needless waste. She is a 2011 grand-prize winner of The Green Awards contest.
For more from Maria Rodale, go to www.mariasfarmcountrykitchen.com